Marty Wheeler Burnett, D.Min., is the Associate Professor of Church Music and Director of Chapel Music at Virginia Theological Seminary. An award-winning educator, Burnett previously served as Director of Fine Arts and Associate Professor of Music at College of Saint Mary in Omaha. She holds Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in organ performance from the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University and a Doctor of Ministry degree from The University of the South. Her publications, presentations, and research focus on liturgical music, particularly hymns and service music by women. Burnett is a past President of the Association of Anglican Musicians and a current member of the Standing Commission on Liturgy and Music of The Episcopal Church. She lives in Alexandria, Virginia.

“This book is a gift to the Episcopal Church, both for those who love the Hymnal 1982 and for those who are eager for future revisions.  We cannot know where we are going unless we know how we got where we are—and this book accessibly narrates the process by which the texts, tunes, and structure of the Hymnal 1982 came to be, celebrating what was done well, and identifying areas that time has not been as kind toward.”

“Marty Wheeler Burnett artfully tells the story of The Hymnal 1982, making generous use of first-person accounts and drawing us into the joys and struggles of bringing to birth this landmark collection of sacred song. Yet this book is not so much about the past as it is about the present and the future—telling the story of a church that continues to sing together while grappling with its faith, its worship, and its mission. Burnett raises important questions about the practice and continuing development of congregational song that will resonate with pastors, musicians, and leaders of every denomination.”

“In this invaluable resource, Marty Wheeler- Burnett draws the reader into a circle of conversation to which most of us would not otherwise have access. Hymnody, no less than rite, is our theological heritage, and this book tells the story of how that heritage was shaped and handed on to us. The book is a treasure and gift to our shared memory.”

"This book is a page-turner for any church musician, pastor, or liturgy lover who reveres the people’s song and appreciates how it shapes faith and nourishes ecclesial identity. Delightfully presented, Dr. Wheeler Burnett transforms the black and white pages of The Hymnal 1982 into a vibrant rainbow of colorful characters, who speak with wit, passion, and insight about how the book came to be and what might follow. Every major hymnal deserves a similar reflection that celebrates its accomplishments and acknowledges its shortfalls before looking toward the next hymnic adventure."

"An extraordinary read, with broad accessibility. Marty’s brilliant writing style inspires a timeless conversation with the 'Shapers of the Hymnal 1982' for generations to come."

"Dr. Wheeler Burnett builds deep appreciation for The Hymnal 1982by lifting up the voices of its editor, poets, composers, contributors, and theologians who willed this influential tome into existence. Her book honors the heritage of music and singing in the American Episcopal Church, while raising prescient and faithful questions for the formation of our next generation of musicians, clergy, and congregants."