[Worship] not changing written music

["Earl.T.McCullough" <Earl.T.McCullough@delphi.com>]

**************************************************
       Looking for praise and worship music products?
                      Visit our list sponsor at:
                  http://www.worshipmusic.com
     **************************************************


I received a well written, respectful letter by a classically trained pianist in our congregation who informed me that our contemporizing hymns was not proper, as it was not appropriate to change music from that of the composer's intent.  I am aware of the basics of the classicists theory (not sure if that's the real term or not) that says, you should not change ANYTHING from the written form of a song...

Can someone give me some of the background for this, including proper terms, and perhaps some historical timelines and events that characterize this notion?  Perhaps some weblinks with info?

I personally believe it is appropriate and beneficial to adapt the music to help facilitate the worship of our God.  Often, the reason cited for maintaining the use of the old classic hymns in church is because of their depth of theology and sentiment, compared with modern choruses that tend to be more simple and intimate.  I personally believe, that updating the musical style can only help increase the impact these songs have to a new generation without the hindrance of musical forms that are not familiar or accepted in todays popular culture.  

(may have to use the paragraph above to explain my thoughts to this wonderful lady)

But, I would like to investigate her position more fully...

learning through struggles,

Earl