Program Description
The purpose of the Sacred Music Internship at St. Michael the Archangel Parish is to provide an outlet for a high school, college, or adult student to advance their skills in church music as an organist/pianist, conductor, composer, or vocalist in a growing, dynamic music ministry in the South Hills of Pittsburgh.
In collaboration with the Director of Music, the Sacred Music Intern is able to design his/her own course of observation, study, lessons, and participation within the resources and activities of the Music Ministry of St. Michael the Archangel Parish. Observation and active participation provide an inside view into the dynamics of a large music ministry and the inner workings of a parish concert series. Organ students may avail themselves of lessons in organ literature, hymn playing, and organ improvisation as part of their internship. Composers may even have the opportunity to compose for an ensemble and occasionally conduct premieres.
The Music Ministry of St. Michael the Archangel Parish offers the Sacred Music Intern the opportunity to work with the nearly 150 music ministers that make up the adult choirs, children’s choirs, Schola Cantorum, semi-professional cantor corps, and handbell choir. The two churches that comprise the parish have three organs for use by the student: St. Bernard is home to a Casavant organ in the main church and a Viscount organ in Clairvaux Hall; Our Lady of Grace features a Cornell-Zimmer organ. Since Music at St. Michael hosts 6-8 concerts and special liturgies each year, the student will also gain experience planning and executing events while working with a wide range of both parish and professional musicians.
The internship offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate class schedules, outside employment, and personal obligations.
Goals of the Internship
- Gain hands-on experience in all facets of the field of Sacred Music
- Develop familiarity with service playing in the context of liturgy
- Develop familiarity with rehearsal prep and working with cantors
- Become acquainted with resources (library, online, etc.) available to church musicians
- Understand the appropriate use of hymns, anthems, and psalms to support themes found in the weekly readings
- Learn to create support materials for choir and congregational use (Worship Aids, choir packets)
- Learn conducting techniques and gestures, warm-up and rehearsal techniques.
- Demonstrate steady progress as a player through disciplined practice to develop good service playing and anthem accompaniment.
Application Details
Candidates must be at least 18 years of age (exceptions may be made with parental permission). Applications must be received by August 1 for the academic year. Interviews will follow immediately.
The internship will begin in late August, for a minimum of one semester (at least 5 months), and may be renewed for up to two years. The internship may be terminated by either party at any time, for any reason.
To apply: Please complete the application form and submit, along with any supporting materials to
SACRED MUSIC INTERN PROGRAM
St. Michael the Archangel Parish
311 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15216
ATTN: Chaz Bowers
PLEASE NOTE: In order to be fully accepted into this program, applicants must first complete all of the Safe Environment protocols set forth by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh.