Music Ministry

“God has bestowed upon his people the gift of song.  God dwells within each human person, in the place where music takes its source.  Indeed, God the giver of song, is present whenever his people sing his praises.” (Sing to the Lord, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops)

Music is an important aspect of the church’s worship.  Listed below are several ensembles that Saint Mary offers to enhance each liturgical celebration.  To obtain more information or participate in an ensemble please contact the parish music director, Mark Ludwig 330.650.0722 ext 234 or mludwig@stmaryhudson.cc .  Many find serving in a music ministry to be a rewarding and holy experience.   It is an opportunity to meet fellow parishioners while praying music that sanctifies and edifies the congregation.

 Cantors

Cantors aid the congregation in song.  Perhaps the most challenging of all music ministries, cantors must posses a presence that is prayerful and not distracting to the worshipers present.  While professional vocalist or degrees in music are not needed, cantors must be able to sing on pitch, use accurate rhythm and have an understanding of tempo.  Cantors are supplied music and schedules months before mutually agreed upon dates and must show up to mass prepared.  The music director is always available to help and answer questions before assigned liturgies.  For an audition, please contact the music office.  There are no age requirements.

Children’s Choir

Children’s Choir welcomes students through eighth grade that would like to learn or can sing.  Rehearsals, directed by Carol McCarthy, are held on Thursdays from September through May .  The Children’s Choir sings twice a month, once at the 11:30 AM Mass on Sunday and at the 9:30 AM Mass on Sunday.  The Children’s choir enhances the Church’s official prayer by offering a wide variety of musical repertoire and instrumentation.   Many students who serve in this ministry develop a strong love of sacred music and continue to serve their parishes through out their lives in this capacity.  For information please contact Carol McCarthy at carolannmccarthy@gmail.com or the parish music director.

Choir

The choir is composed of men and women of all ages and backgrounds.  The choir leads the congregation in musical prayer usually at the 9:30 Mass on Sunday, but occasionally will serve at other liturgies. This ensemble is a rewarding ministry for those who like to sing in harmony and challenge themselves with a vast variety of musical repertoire.  Rehearsals are held in the church on Wednesday nights 7:30-9:00 PM in a well organized and methodical style.  The ability to learn, have fun, and be challenged is required for all who serve in this ministry.  There is no age requirement.  Professional voices are not required.  For more information please contact the music director.

Resurrection Choir

Composed of people of all ages, the Resurrection Choir assists in liturgical singing at funerals conducted at Saint Mary.  There is not a regular rehearsal, but choir members are asked to arrive 45 minutes before a funeral.  This ensemble generally offers voice for those present whose grieving overshadows their ability to sing.  Members of this ensemble are contacted a few days before a scheduled funeral.  To serve in this ministry please contact the parish music director.

Handbells

This fun and challenging ministry offers variety to the liturgical celebrations.  Parishioners of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, are drawn to this group. The ensemble rings three octaves of Malmark handbells and chimes.  The ability to learn two notes on a musical staff, count and attend rehearsals is all that is needed to participate.  Originating from Northern Europe, handbells add a joyous color to the official prayer of the church, along with creating an environment that allows people with a minimal musical background a chance to participate in instruments of praise.  Rehearsals for this ensemble are Monday nights 7:30 to 9:00 PM in the church.  Limited spots are available and people of all ages and education are welcomed.  For more information please contact the music director.

Instrumentalists

Any musician that would like to share their talents with God and his people are encouraged to participate.  This ministry requires that the musician must be able to play in tune, keep tempo and use accurate rhythm.  Because the music is used to worship God in his holy temple, only music that possesses sacredness is permitted.  An audition is required and this ministry is open to anyone of any age who can meet the above requirements.

String Ensemble

This new ministry has not yet been named, but is open to students who play a stringed instrument.  Students will offer their talent to God the first Saturday of every month at the 5:30 PM Mass.  A rehearsal time has not been finalized, but will probably be held before the 5:30 PM Mass.  In order to participate in this ministry, students must possess the abilities to play in an ensemble: Pitch, technique, rhythm, etc…  This unique ministry will enhance and add variety to the liturgy by playing a solo pieces and adding depth to hymns and songs.  With the help of Marcia Ferritto (a parishioner) interested students need to audition in order to demonstrate the above mentioned qualifications.  For more information please contact the music director.

Brass/Woodwind Ensemble 

Not formed yet, this ministry will provide an opportunity for students to share their abilities with God and his people.  When formed, this ensemble will play once a month, probably at the 11:30 AM Mass.  The same requirements are needed to participate in this ministry as listed in the string ensemble.  If interested or willing to help coordinate this ministry please contact the music director.

LIFE TEEN Music Ministry 

Coordinated by Jeff Botos, this contemporary ensemble serves the 5:30 PM Mass on Sunday night.  Currently, the ensemble is complete with musicians and vocalist.  This ministry could benefit from substitute musicians. Students who wish to participate must be at least a junior in high school and adults are welcome.  The ability to keep rhythm, tempo and pitch are required to participate in this ministry.  Auditions are required.  Please contact the Jeff Botos or the Catholic LIFE TEEN office ext 234 for further information.

“Praise God in his holy sanctuary; give praise in the mighty dome of heaven.  Give praise for his mighty deeds; praise him for his great majesty.  Give praise with blasts upon the horn, praise him with harp and lyre.  Give praise with tambourines and dance, praise him with flutes and strings.  Give praise with crashing cymbals, praise him with sounding cymbals.  LET EVERYTHING THAT HAS BREATH PRAISE THE LORD!” Psalm 150