Welcome to new members! Please review this information to see how this ministry can become a part of your life.First, we would like to emphasize that our choirs are in no way a “performance group.” Our mission is to enhance the liturgy through the sung word. We would like all members to feel as if they are sharing their gift with the congregation, not taking part in a concert.
Rehearsals begin promptly at 7:30 pm Thursdays. The Sunday evening choir meets in our church’s Worship Space; the singers and cantors that support the other liturgies meet in the Music Room, located down the hallway to the right of the worship area.
Rehearsals end at 9:00 pm. Occasionally, before major feasts or sacramental celebrations, our times may be slightly extended. Basically, these rehearsals run concurrent with the school months of September through June.
Rehearsals consist of the selections for at least three of the up-coming weekends. A list of these selections is available in advance, so that the individual can review unfamiliar music. Our major source for worship music is the Gather Comprehensive Choir Edition from GIA Publications with additional octavos as needed.
Our volunteer members run the gamut from trained musicians to self-labeled “non-readers.” Some of these singers claim 15 years or more at CTR and others have been with the various groups for less than a year.
This indeed is a commitment of time and talent. Please try a rehearsal or two and judge for yourself whether this form of parish service fits you. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact Claire Caruso 703-430-0811, extension 123; or Tim Paquin, extension 130.