When I invite members of the parish to sing in the choir, I am often given one of two responses, the most common being, "I can't sing." I enjoy the laugh we share when I tell them that their family or friends have assured me they can sing--especially in the shower. Well, the church building is no different than the acoustics of the shower, just a little bigger. In fact, it has been said that "If you can talk, you can sing," or, "singing is nothing more than controlled yelling." We can all testify to the awesome excitement we express at our favorite games, whether in the bleachers or in front of our big screen TV. So, because we know we can all sing, let's explore just what it really means to sing in the Parish Choir at SJB.
The first is to understand that singing in the choir is Stewardship. Yes, singing in the choir is a wonderful way to express your Stewardship to our Lord. It requires time, commitment, and sacrifice.
Part of the sacrifice involves the willingness to learn and be open to new adventures.
Fundamental to singing is … the ability to
--match pitches
--learn your voice part and sing it independently
--blend your voice with others in your section
--be present and willing to learn
At each rehearsal we incorporate learning how to sing and how to read music as a part of the weekly routine, including the above fundamentals. We have welcoming and friendly singers who are experienced in singing and reading music and are always ready to help their neighbors as we rehearse. What is so great about this program is that we offer free music education.
Secondly, the unity of the Church can be expressed in the unity of the choir when it strives for pitch accuracy, beautiful and blended tone, well-supported breath, and proper diction and unified vowels, moving as one great voice.
These are all layers or levels of music that we strive for during the weekly rehearsal. It is very rewarding and fulfilling.
Because it is important that the anthem be well prepared for each Sunday, it is expected that all members of the choir make a sacrifice to be present at the Thursday rehearsal and Sunday Mass.
Sunday warm-ups and rehearsal for Mass begin at 9:15 a.m. in the church choir loft
Thursday rehearsals are held from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with designated sectional starting at 6:30 p.m. in the music room of the Parish Hall
