Sacred Music at St. Mary Magdalene

“The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art. The main reason for this pre-eminence is that, as sacred song united to the words, it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn liturgy.”

Sacred music is integral to the liturgical life of the Church, in which the members of Her Mystical Body unite with Christ, the Head, in His eternal sacrifice on the cross. Sacred music is characterized by beauty and sincerity of form. It flows from and is united to the Liturgical texts and actions. It is holy, set apart, and expressive of the spirit of communal prayer. It engages the mind, body, and soul to enter into the mysteries of our faith. Whether an ancient chant or a modern sacred composition, it conveys the truth of the eternal.

Interested in becoming part of the sacred music at Saint Mary Magdalene? Please review all the opportunities below and contact Claire to discuss your role!

Why Choir? Interviews with SMM Choristers

Choral Program

At Saint Mary Magdalene, our music program is focused on liturgical choirs for adults and children, contributing to the beauty and dignity of the sacred liturgy according to the rich tradition of sacred music as understood and shown forth by the mind of the Church.

Each choir at Saint Mary Magdalene is named in honor of Our Lady under a different Latin title from her litany. For many centuries, liturgical choirs were known as Schola Cantorum (literally, “Singing School”).

The choir season runs from September (after Labor Day) through early June. From mid-June through the end of August, the choirs are on break and Liturgical Music is led by cantors/small teams of men or women.

Members of all choirs are provided an emphasis on and guidance toward a healthy and pure vocal approach, teamwork, aural skills, and musical literacy. All choirs and instrumental ensembles come together each Spring for a concert in late May.

2021-22 Youth Scholas

• Schola Stella preparatory choir for grades K-2 (meets Wednesdays, 4:00-4:45pm)
• Schola Pacis for grades 3-6 (meets Tuesdays, 3:45-4:45pm)
• Schola Purissima for grades 3-6 (meets Wednesdays, 5:00-6:00pm)
• Schola Potens for grades 6-9 (meets Tuesdays, 5:00-6:00pm)
• Schola Justitiae for grades 9-12+ (meets Saturdays, 9:30-11:30am)

For inquiries about our youth scholas, please contact Claire or James (see right side of page for contact information).

2021-22 Adult Scholas

• Schola Fidelis (men and women) practices every-other Wednesday from 6:30-8:30pm and sings most Sundays for 9:00am Mass. Welcoming members in all sections!
• Schola Gratiae (women) practices every-other Wednesday (along with Fidelis) from 6:30-8:30pm and sings on select Saturdays for the 4:30pm Vigil Mass or Sundays for 4:30pm Mass. Welcoming new members!
• Schola Regina (women) practices every-other Wednesday (along with Fidelis and Gratiae) from 6:30-8:30pm and sings most Sundays for 7:00am Mass. Additional members very much needed.
• Schola Apostolorum advanced men's schola practices every-other Tuesday from 6:30-8:30pm and generally sings every-other Sunday for 11:30am ad orientem Mass. Entry by audition. Seeking new members!
• Schola Rosa is an auditioned SATB ensemble that practices every-other Tuesday from 6:30-8:30pm, singing select Sundays at 11:30am ad orientem Mass and for other special events.

Parish Orchestra

The parish orchestra of wind, brass, and string players practice during the Spring and participates in our annual Spring Concert. Admittance by audition for experienced musicians (teens and adults).

Instrumentalists

Adults or (advanced high school students) who have private training and strong experience in solo playing of string or woodwind instruments are welcome to play for Mass on a regular basis, or to be part of small ensembles for Christmas and Easter. Violinists and flutists are especially sought.

Sound Board

Individuals who are technologically savvy, have a keen ear, and are willing to assist by monitoring the sound board during liturgies. Training provided.

Missa Magdalena Demo Videos

Read about the development of the Missa Magdalena by our Director of Sacred Music, Claire Halbur, HERE.