Here are some of the questions we commonly hear regarding the parish music program. If we don't answer yours in this quick list, please feel free to e-mail the director with a specific question.
Q: How do I join?
A: Whether you're new to the parish, or if you've been here for a while and just want to get involved, please get in touch with the director. E-mail works just fine. We don't have a designated sign-up time. If you're looking for a good time to join, however, right after Christmas and right after Easter are suggested. It's easier to learn our repertoire during the less-intensive rehearsals of Ordinary Time.
Q: Are there any requirements?
A: Well, it does help if you're able to carry a tune! We enjoy our work, but we're also aware that we are called to a specific liturgical ministry — leading God's people in song. We also remind you that although this is a volunteer effort, your commitment is essential. The director and your fellow choir members depend on you to be in attendance — and on time — for Masses and rehearsals.
Q: Do I have to be able to read music?
A: It can come in handy! The choirs are never handed a sheet of music and asked to sing it without rehearsing (thank goodness!), but you'll enjoy things much more if you have at least a working familiarity with musical notation. Then again, some of our singers "play by ear" and do quite nicely.
Q: What sort of time commitment is involved?
A: The 5:00 Choir sings every week, arriving at 4:15 on Sunday afternoons to warm up. This group rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 7:30 to 9:00. The 10:30 Choir also sings every week. Its rehearsal is prior to Mass on Sunday mornings, beginning at 9:00. The Psalm 23 Choir sings at funeral liturgies, and rehearses at 10:00 on the last Friday morning of the month. In addition, members of all choirs join to sing for holy day Masses, Christmas, the Easter Triduum and special liturgies for Confirmation, First Holy Communion, etc.
Q: Do I have to audition?
A: If you want to be a cantor, absolutely! If you wish to join a choir, the director may ask you to sing a few lines. Much of our music is written in four parts, and it's helpful to know whether you sing soprano, alto, tenor or bass. If you're bold enough, you may be asked if you'd like to lead the responsorial psalm or gospel acclamation.
Q: Do I have to sing solos?
A: Of course not! Some people are comfortable doing that and some are not. Choir members do lead responsorial psalms, gospel acclamations and so forth, but that's certainly not required. If you're interested, we can help you develop that skill. The strength and beauty of a choir is that people with varying degrees of skill and proficiency can come together as one to create wonderful sounding music.
Q: Can I take my music home?
A: Please do! Seriously, the more time you can spend with the music, the more confident you will be, and the better we will be able to lead the congregation.
Q: Is there any cost involved?
A: Only your commitment of time. The parish provides all the musical resources we need. The director will even toss you a pencil if you need to take notes.
