As we have said, the huge repertory of Gregorian chant ranges from simple recitation on a single pitch, with scarcely any variation, to long melodies that can make one dizzy with their endless, ecstatic twists and turns. Recitation was used for texts considered fairly routine in the services, such as lengthy readings from the Old Testament. In Gregorian recitation, the pitch on which the text is sung, called the reciting tone, is repeated again and again except for small, formulaic variations at beginnings and ends of phrases. These punctuate the text and make it easier to understand — and sing, since they give the singers time for a breath.

Elaborate melody, instead, was saved for more significant occasions, such as prayers at Mass and processions. One of the simplest genres showing such melody is the antiphon. Antiphons are usually workaday little pieces, but some exceptional ones can be very moving.