Dr. William Peter Mahrt, distinguished scholar and advocate for sacred music passed away on January 1, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on March 9, 1939 he dedicated his life to the study and performance of Gregorian chant and medieval and Renaissance polyphony. Dr. Mahrt earned his Ph.D. from Stanford University in 1969 and later served as a longtime professor there.
He was the president of the Church Music association of America since 2005 and editor of its journal, Sacred Music. Dr. Mahrt played a pivotal role in promoting the Church’s musical heritage. He also directed the St. Ann Choir in Palo Alto for over five decades, seamlessly blending scholarly rigor with liturgical practice
Dr. Mahrt’s contributions to musicology and his commitment to the preservation and revitalization of sacred music have indeed left a profound impact on the field. His legacy will continue to inspire both scholars and musicians alike in their dedication to the beauty of the Church’s beautiful musical tradition. Read more here.
Image courtesy of St. Patrick’s Seminary.
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