Music Ministry

SJN CHORALE
The SJN Chorale is committed to being leaders in sung prayer, by alternating or reinforcing the sacred song of the assembly, or by enhancing it with the addition of a musical elaboration. The SJN Chorale is a four-part choir with its roots all the way back to the beginning of the parish. At certain times in the liturgical celebration the choir alone will sing works whose musical demands enlist and challenge its competence. Requirements: Choir members are expected to rehearse together on Thursday evenings from 7pm to 9pm during the months of September through May. The Adult choir sings at the 8:30am mass each Sunday and are expected to show up 30 minutes before Mass begins. Choir members come from the community and either read music, or can learn music from their own tape recorder weekly. During the summer months the choir sings at the 8:30am mass rehearsing only on Sunday mornings 30 minutes before mass. Anyone wishing to join the adult choir should call and schedule an appointment with the music director.

REVELATION
Revelation is a musical ensemble that includes vocals, percussion, guitars, bass and keyboards. The group presents the psalms, hymns and mass parts in a contemporary musical setting at the 10:30 am liturgy. The focus of the group is to bring the scriptures alive to a 21st century congregation. Guided by the saying that "Singing is like praying twice", Revelation's repertoire includes contemporary Christian pieces whose lyrics speak the gospel in simple words and whose melodies and accompaniment provide an emotional & joyful connection to the beauty of God?s message to his people today. Members must be prepared to often times create their own vocal and/or instrumental parts and to contribute to the song selection process. Membership in Revelation is by invitation or audition only.

KIDS OF THE KINGDOM
Kids of the Kingdom are children that make a joyful noise to the Lord who are 2nd grade or older. They are trained to become full and active members of the singing community and are encouraged to continue on to other choirs. Rehearsals begin in November in the St. Cecilia Music Room. They rehearse on Wednesday from 6:00pm to 7:00pm.

CANTORS
Cantors: While there is no place in the liturgy for display of virtuosity for its own sake, artistry is valued, and the cantor is an individual singer who can effectively lead the assembly, attractively proclaim the Word of God in the psalm sung between the readings, and take his or her part in other responsorial singing. The cantor presents a simple musical setting, with the people taking part, and leads the faithful as far as is needed. The cantor also leads common sacred song and responsorial singing. The cantor is approved and trained by the music director. Meetings: Preparation and Practice times are negotiated between cantor and musical director. Vocal experience and music reading skills are necessary.

SPIRIT SONG
Spirit Song is an ensemble that makes use of instruments like drums, guitar, electronic keyboard, percussion instruments and of course the voice. Their members rise also from the community, and offer the talents that they have in music to help stimulate feelings of joy and contemplation at appropriate times in the liturgy as well lead the community. Requirements: Spirit Song ministers at the Sunday evening mass at 7:00pm. This choir consists of youth and adults.