Choirs are being temporarily dissolved until it is safe to resume our regular choral ministry activities.  In place of the choirs, a small Schola of teens and adults (auditioned or by invitation) of no more than 4-6 people will instead be organized to easily maintain social distancing in the choir loft while singing (9:30 Sunday Masses and some feast days).  It is strongly advised that individuals 65+ and/or with health complications do not participate in a group singing ministry at this time. Furthermore, if you work in an environment (retail, hospital, restaurant, etc.) where you might be at a higher risk of contracting and spreading the virus, you will be kindly asked to opt out of participating in a group singing ministry in the meantime and consider a different opportunity within the ministry. Contact the director of music for a Schola audition appointment if you feel confident that you meet the requirements for these unique circumstances.

Cantors (teens and adults) will maintain social distancing in the choir room and loft from the organist (who will be wearing a mask) during the 45-minute rehearsal prior to and during Mass. You will be also responsible for sanitizing your microphone and music stand after Mass, and kindly asked to wear a mask when you are not singing.  If you are considering sharing your gifts as a parish cantor and find these terms agreeable, please contact the director of music for an audition appointment. 

Hand bells (teens and adults) will resume this fall, but masks are required. You will not be allowed to participate if you refuse to wear a mask. Additionally, you will need to bring your own gloves (please use soft and comfortable form-fitting, cloth gloves).  All teens and adults are welcome to participate. If you have never tried hand bells before, this is a great opportunity to join, especially if you will not be singing in choir until further notice and still desire to share your musical talents and abilities.  Weekly rehearsal day and time is yet to be determined - please check back later.

Instrumentalists (teens and adults) will play for feast days throughout the year. This may be done as solo work or in duos, trios, or quartets.  Desired instruments for this ensemble include violin, viola, cello, woodwinds, and brass. Masks and social distancing will also apply in this group.  Temporary mask removal is, of course, permitted for brass and woodwind players while playing.  However, no more than two players of these kinds of instruments at a time will be allowed to play in the loft and will be properly distanced from others. Music will be distributed electronically, and a rehearsal will be held in the choir loft within the week leading up to the appointed Mass. All teens and adults with at least 3 years of playing experience are welcome to participate. Please contact the director of music if you are considering sharing your instrumental talents in our parish, or if you have any questions.