Music Ministry

“I will sing of steadfast love and justice; to you,
       O LORD, I will make music ~ Psalm 101:1”

Simon and Jude parish offers many ways that singers and musicians can become involved. Below is a list of opportunities, and information about each. Music plays a very important role in parish liturgy. We welcome any person of any age.


CANTORS/LEADERS OF SONG 
Cantors encourage us all to raise our voices in praise and thanksgiving, and in so doing, help us participate more fully in the celebration of the Mass as a part of the "Body of Christ." Membership is open to all parishioners. Personality and fervor are as important as vocal ability. Ability to read music is a plus, but not a necessity. Cantor workshops are offered throughout the year, and private tutoring sessions are also offered.

ORGANISTS/PIANISTS
All weekend masses are accompanied by either a pianist or organist. The accompanists must possess a high level of musical proficiency, and be available to be on a rotating basis. Parish organists and pianists are also needed for weddings, funerals and holy days.

SUPPLEMENTAL MUSICIANS
Throughout the year, special services, masses and weddings require additional musicians such as trumpeters, violinists, flutists, etc. They enhance the liturgies in a very special way. If you play a musical instrument, and would like to share your talents with the parish community, it would be greatly appreciated.

ADULT CHOIR
The choir leads the congregation in praising the Lord through song during our weekend liturgies. They sing during the 10:30 a.m. Sunday liturgy two times per month, as well as other special celebrations. The choir also presents concerts during the year. Any member of the parish is welcome. New members may join at any time.  Rehearsals are held twice a month on Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m. from September to May. 
 
CONTEMPORARY PRAISE/GUITAR ENSEMBLES
SS Simon and Jude currently has two contemporary ensembles that include drums, vocals, guitars, bass and piano. They are scheduled at a variety of mass times throughout the year, dependent on availability. Due to the challenging aspects of the music performed, a high level of musical proficiency is required. Any parishioner interested in joining a contemporary ensemble is encouraged to request an audition at any time throughout the year. 

YOUTH CHOIR
Our parish Youth Choir offers an opportunity for the High School students of our parish to become involved in liturgical leadership at our Sunday, 6:00pm liturgy., once a month, September through June. Students do not need to commit to every month and may play in accordance to their schedules. One hour rehearsals are mandatory and are scheduled during the week prior to their scheduled mass.                  Musicians do not need to commit to every week and may play in accordance to their schedules. The youth choir is welcome to play at overflow masses on Christmas Eve and Easter Sunday. All high school students, previous band or choral experience may join. 

CHILDREN’S CHOIR
Our parish Childrens’ Choir offers an opportunity for the young people of our parish to become involved in liturgical leadership at our weekend assemblies. The group sings once a month, 5:00pm Saturday mass, from September through May.  All children of the parish in Grades 1-8 may join.