N: The singing is trying to make it sound attractive and we have to consider the different cittas that motivate correct recitation or
such kind of singing. The latter kind may be motivated by cittas rooted in lobha, attachment and this is not suitable. I think this is
the point of the rule.
D: I think you mention the main point : trying to make the sound attractive would be counter-productive (kama tanha), i.e. form over substance. The whole purpose of chanting was to memorize and recall the teaching , which - after some generations - served as the base for the written canon.
It seems to me that intonation and a kind of singing mixed lateron , becoming more a ritual for certain events .
The meditative aspect of sound is - as far as I know - neglected in Theravada.
with Metta Dieter
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