Children’s choirs at St. Michael the Archangel Parish emphasize the rich musical traditions of the Catholic Church, beginning with the mystical sounds and rhythms of Gregorian chant that echo down the ages, giving voice to the sacred mysteries that transcend all space and time. Rooted firmly in Catholic teachings, the music of the Church is reverent, awe-inspiring, joyful, and profound. Our professionally-led after-school programs give children the opportunity to experience the joy of prayer through song while developing a life-long appreciation of their faith in a rewarding, fun, and supportive environment. Unlike other comparable programs, there are no fees to participate. All that is required is a strong commitment by parent and chorister alike!
The joy that filled the church when Children’s Choirs for Christmas sang to herald the Savior’s birth can be your child’s once again, singing as part of the Children’s Choir for Easter. Children in Grades 3-8 are invited to celebrate Christ’s glorious resurrection, sharing in one of the essential mysteries upon which our faith rests.
The three short rehearsals scheduled for participants are a blessing for busy children and parents, held on Wednesdays, February 28th and March 13th and Monday, March 25th from 7:00-8:00 PM in Fontenay Center on the St. Bernard campus. The children then sing for Mass on Easter Sunday at 9:00 AM and again on April 7th for Divine Mercy Sunday at the 11:00 AM Mass. Both Masses are celebrated at St. Bernard Church.
Don’t let your children miss this opportunity to give voice to their faith. To find out more, contact Chaz Bowers in the Music Ministry office at 412-531-7412.
If you are interested in registering your child for a Children’s Choir, please click here.
The St. Dominic Savio Choir of Boys and Girls (Grades 3-8)
Children in Grades 3-8 have a unique opportunity to sing some of the Church’s earliest and most beautiful music in the form of Gregorian chant. Along with general music theory and proper vocal development, this emphasis on the Church’s musical roots provides a basis for the children to grow in their understanding of the uniquely important role that music plays in the communal worship of the Church. No prior musical experience is required, only an eagerness to learn, age-appropriate reading ability, and the capacity to match pitch.
The youngest person ever to be canonized by the Catholic Church prayed that he “always be friends with Jesus and Mary.” St. Dominic Savio’s (1842-1857) piety and the “heroic virtue” in his everyday life led to his canonization and serves as an example of holiness for all children. He is the patron saint of choir boys and girls. (Feast Day: May 6)
The Holy Innocents Choir (Grades K-2)
The pure voices of these youngest choristers add sweet notes of joyful innocence to the celebration of special masses in the parish. Children in this group will sing for Lessons and Carols and the 4:00 p.m. Christmas Eve Mass.
The innocent children who became the church’s first martyrs for the Gospel serve as a reminder to always live in Christ. (Feast Day: December 28)