In this new edition of A Panorama of Christian Hymnody, Paul Richardson sustains Erik Routely's intial threefold purpose: "to provide pleasure [of hymn singing]"; "to support the teaching of hymnology"; and "to stimulate the editors of hymnals." This book contains invaluable information on the origins and history of Christian hymnody. The texts of nearly 400 new hymns have been added to the original content along with four new chapters that reflect the extensive developments in hymn writing since 1975. This book remains a most useful and entertaining volume for the church musician , hymnologist, musical historian, or anyone interested in the development of hymnody in its various forms.