Music in Catholic worship is not merely background sound; it is an essential aspect of the liturgy that enables the faithful to participate more deeply in the celebration of the sacred mysteries. Rooted in both Scripture and Tradition, music serves to unite the congregation and elevate the soul, guiding all towards a deeper encounter with God.
The Music Ministry at St. Matthew’s Parish is a volunteer-centered program that serves the parish community in all aspects of liturgical life. The choral groups maintain an active rehearsal and liturgy schedule, which seeks to provide music of the highest possible quality for our parish liturgies.
The Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy reminds us that, “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” (CSL, 112).
The liturgy is, in turn, at the heart of our Catholic Faith. The members of our music ministry participate in the program in service to the parish through the spirit of Christian Stewardship in giving of their Time, Talent and Treasure.
- St. Matthew’s Choir #1
- St. Matthew’s Choir #1 is a Contemporary Choir that sings for special liturgies throughout the year. Directed by Lynne Kappes and Karen Weaver, the Choir brings together all voice parts to create a beautiful balance of sound for the liturgy. Rehearsals are scheduled as needed. We are currently looking for all voice parts.
- St. Matthew’s Choir #2
- St. Matthew’s Choir #2 is a Traditional Choir that sings at the 11:00 a.m. Mass each Sunday, Christmas, Easter, and other feast days and special liturgies throughout the year. Directed by Mary Burgess, the Choir’s repertoire covers the entire range of traditional Catholic liturgical music. At this time, we have openings for all voice parts. Rehearsals are Sunday mornings at 10:15 a.m., or as otherwise scheduled.
- Contemporary Ensemble
- The Contemporary Ensemble sings on Sunday at the 7:00 a.m. Mass and rehearsals are scheduled as needed. Directed by Karen Weaver, the Ensemble offers a mixture of contemporary Catholic styles with piano. We welcome new musicians!
- Mixed Ensemble
- The Mixed Ensemble sings on Saturday at the 4:30 p.m. Mass with rehearsal at 3:30 p.m. prior to Mass. Directed by Mary Burgess, the Ensemble offers a mixture of traditional and contemporary Catholic styles with piano and guitar. We welcome new musicians!
- Children’s Choir
- Directed by Kim Maes, the Children’s Choir sings at the 11:00 a.m. Mass every 3rd Sunday from October to June. The choir rehearses from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. every Thursday in the Doran Center, and meets 45 minutes before each Mass they sing. Children in all grades, from all schools as well as home-schooled are invited.
- Cantors
- Parish cantors are selected through a process of audition and interview with the Director of Music. Because this is a specialized ministry, music reading and voice training are highly recommended. For further information on any of the choirs, or to schedule a Cantor audition, please contact Kim Maes, Director of Liturgical Music, at 406-752-6788 ex214 or maes@stmattsaints.org for additional information.
