intoning

Uttering prayers, sutras, and so on in the form of a musical recitative. The practice of intoning is very ancient and is practised among the great majority of cultures, including most Christian churches.

Intoning is similar to chanting, the greater part of the prayer being recited on one note, varied sometimes by certain simple inflections.

In cathedrals and larger churches, intoning greatly simplifies audible utterances as well as adding beauty, formality, and dignity to choral worship.