Cantorial Tradition

[HST2nd <HST2nd...>]

To the Cantors on the list:

I'm interested in learning the origins and relative antiquity of the Cantorial
tradition in Jewish worship.  Does the role of Cantors predate the diaspora?
It is common to both European and oriental Judaism?  To what degree (if any)
has the tradition lent to, or borrowed from, Christian liturgical practice?
Is the term "liturgical" correct in reference to Jewish worship?

These must seem naïve questions, but I'm not Jewish and would like to learn.

Thanks, 

Stan