Louis S. Valenzi, Director of Music
[email protected]
Cathy Niebel, Associate Director
[email protected]
Adult Choirs
The Saint James Adult Choir sings at the 11:00 AM Mass from September through Pentecost and rehearses Thursday nights from 7:00–8:30 pm, as well as before Mass in the sanctuary.
The choir at Saint Mary Church sings at the 9:30 am Sunday liturgy and rehearses beforehand at 8:00 am. Currently, there are no other rehearsals during the week for the St. Mary Choir.
We welcome all singers from high school age through adult and are particularly in need of male voices. The ability to read music and experience singing in choirs is preferred but not required. All that is required is the desire to fulfill an important ministry, possess a willing, flexible attitude, discipline, commitment, dedication and a sense of humor. Most of all, good choir members constantly seek to improve the quality of the group and use their gifts for the glory of God.
Cantors
If you’ve had a little vocal or musical training and/or perhaps previous experience as a cantor or as a soloist, and would like to help lead the congregation in prayerful song, then serving the ministry of Cantor might be for you. Cantors are scheduled based on their availability. Rehearsals are scheduled as needed.
Handbell Choirs
The Bell Choir at St. Mary’s rehearses on Monday evenings at 5:45 and the St. James Bell Choir rehearses on Wednesdays at 7:00 pm. Ability to identify notes on the staff and count are helpful, but not required. You will be taught everything as you go.
Children's Choir at St. James Church
Children in grades 2-8 are invited to participate the the Divine Redeemer Children's Choir at St. James Church. The children sing at various times throughout the year at the 11:00 am Mass at St. James or 5:00 Mass at St. Mary's. This past year, the Choir sang at the 9:00 Thanksgiving Day Mass, at our annual Music Ministries Concert, as well as Christmas Eve at the 4:30 Mass. Rehearsals are Wednesdays from 4:30 until 5:15.
Youth Choir At St. Mary Church
Anyone in grades 6-8 is invited to join the Divine Redeemer Youth Ensemble. We are looking for singers and instrumentalists. Rehearsals are Tuesdays from 4:45 until 5:45. Pizza will be served after rehearsals before you proceed to Faith Formation. Rehearsal dates are: November 7, 21 and December 5, 19.
Instrumentalists
We are always looking for instrumentalists – guitars, flutes, brass, etc. Instrumental music can enhance the beauty of liturgical celebrations. Rehearsals are scheduled as needed. If you are proficient at an instrument and would like to enhance the Mass periodically, please contact the Director of Music.
Louis Valenzi
Director of Music and Liturgy
(412) 741-6650
[email protected]