"Music is the flesh that hangs upon the skeleton of the liturgy!" The late Fr. Hugo, a renowned liturgist in the 1970's once proclaimed. It is the way we express our emotions in prayer. The Psalms, especially, are filled with all of our wants, desires, hopes, dreams, joys, sorrows, pain, thankfulness and praise.
Music is essential to the prayer life of the community. Therefore, three considerations need to be kept in mind when deciding what music to use at what liturgy. Pastoral: does this piece of music reflect the needs, desires and abilities of this celebrating community? Liturgical: does this piece of music reflect the importance of the scriptural readings of the celebration or the ritual-action taking place? Musical: does this piece of music reflect a wise choice in style, taste, and quality?
There are many styles of music to choose from and many different resources. Consideration is given to the rich tradition of hymnody and to the "soundness" of theology presented in the hymns. Various styles are incorporated into the choices for each liturgy reflecting the various tastes of the assembled community. It is hoped that by experiencing these various styles, while retaining some of the rich tradition, the music experienced will appeal to the ever-growing diversity of our worshipping community.
There are many wonderful opportunities for parishioners to share their talents with the assembly in prayer. It is hoped that this brief introduction to our vital parish ministry will entice some of you to join us on this journey of faith. To share your talent with the Parish, or for further information, contact Michelle Salgado, Director of Music Ministries, at 724.586.7610 x. 320.
Our cantors meet regularly with the Director of Music Ministries for individual coaching and lessons. Cantors are scheduled to sing as often as every week or as little as once a month.
Training our Children is essential to our growth as a parish. We take that very seriously here at Saint Kilian Parish. The Junior Cantors are always schedule with Adult Cantors and learn from their adult mentors.
Today's choir fulfills the same unique ministry as the ancient schola; to enhance the prayer experience of the assembly gathered at liturgy. Often, choir members are not trained musicians. The members usually have a love of music, a good ear and a pleasant voice that blends well with others.
SKP Children's Choir on the Saint Kilian Parish Music Ministry YouTube Channel
Today's choir fulfills the same unique ministry as the ancient schola; to enhance the prayer experience of the assembly gathered at liturgy. Often, choir members are not trained musicians. The members usually have a love of music, a good ear and a pleasant voice that blends well with others.
SKP Adult Choir on the Saint Kilian Parish Music Ministry YouTube Channel
Saint Kilian Parish is blessed to have a Three-Octave Bell and Melody Chime Set. The ringing of Hand Bells and Melody Chimes is a pleasant addition to the liturgy and they are utilized to help accompany congregational singing as well as solo meditation.
SKP Devoto Ringers Bell Choir on the Saint Kilian Parish Music Ministry YouTube Channel
Instrumentalists are very desirable at liturgy. Many modern composers write music for wind, percussion and stringed instruments. If you play flute, guitar, oboe, violin, cello, drums etc. consider sharing your talent with us! Rehearsals are by appointment and your ministry will depend on your personal schedule. To share your talent with the Parish, or for further information, contact Michelle Salgado, Director of Music Ministries, at 724.586.7610 x. 320.