Purpose.
The choirs, in light of our understanding of stewardship, strive to bring a level of musical performance to the liturgy, that is above that which the congregation alone is able to achieve. Through the choir, people who possess the necessary singing ability, devote time and talent to the preparation of choral music that is intended to inspire and sanctify the gathered assembly. A good choir performing appropriate music, has much the same ability to inspire as does a good homily.
English Choir (Sunday 10:30 Mass) Qualifications. The ability to read music is a plus, but not a requirement. Similarly, a good solo voice is wonderful, but very few choir members are soloists. Rather, choir membership calls for a voice that blends well with others. A good “ear” for music is important. If you comfortably sing the congregational hymns and mass parts during parish liturgies, you are probably a good candidate for the choir. In our choir rehearsals we explore the principles of good singing, and as a group, we continually strive to improve our skills.
Membership is open to anyone of high school age and up. It is important that all members strive to commit to the schedule. While everyone encounters occasional schedule conflicts, it must be remembered that a choir is a team effort. And just like a sports team, the best players are always needed to serve as a model for the others, and the rest simply cannot afford to miss a practice: soccer or choir!
Not sure? We forever encounter people who basically say, “I’ve never sung in a choir before. I don’t think I’m good enough.” Most of the time they are wrong about the second part. (Remember, we aren’t looking for the next Pavarotti.) But rarely, however, someone who is attracted to the choir turns out to just simply not have a voice that fits. It’s about 1 in 50. That’s why we always like to privately listen to new recruits. We will ask you to sing something very simple such as “Happy Birthday,” or “O Come All Ye Faithful” (with the help of the piano). Since the choir always sings together, this is the only opportunity the directors got to hear the raw material which makes up the group. Secondly, it helps us to decide whether you are a soprano, alto, tenor, or bass. Thirdly, if you are having difficulty matching the piano, or the director’s voice, we’ll tell you. It’s that simple. If you don’t try, you’ll never know.
2014–2015 Schedule
• Rehearsals: Every Thursday until mid-May, 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Exceptions:
Thanksgiving Day is replaced by Tuesday, November 25th No rehearsal on Dec. 26th; Holy Thursday is replaced by Tuesday, March 31st No Rehearsal April 2nd (Easter Week)
• Liturgies: 10:30 Mass every Sunday from September 7th until May 31st The choir gathers (the call) promptly at 10:00 AM for warm up. If for any reason (weather, etc.) a rehearsal is cancelled, the call on the following Sunday is at 9:30 AM
• Special Celebrations
Dec. 24th, Christmas Eve – 10 PM Carols followed by Mass (9:30 call)
April 2nd, Holy Thursday – 7:30 PM (7:00 call)
April 3rd, Good Friday – 7:30 PM (7:00 call) Other events may be scheduled during the year.