Holy Redeemer Music Ministry

The Music Ministry of Holy Redeemer Church consists of several choirs and instrumentalists, both paid and volunteer, whose primary purpose is to enhance the worship at this Catholic Community through music. The ministry includes the Chancel Choir, Schola Cantorum, Youth Choirs, adult and youth Handbell choirs and several instrumentalists and singers. The Music Ministry is under the direction of Richard Newman. Sherry Johnson directs the youth music groups and Eduardo Guerra ably provides a more contemporary musical setting for the Sunday evening mass.

The Chancel Choir is open to any adult who would like to participate. This choir sings for the 10 a.m. Mass from September through mid-June and liturgies, Holy Days, and special services and events. The Chancel Choir rehearses on Thursdays at 7 p.m.

The Schola Cantorum is made up primarily of the regular church cantors. The music for this ensemble is more challenging and some ability to read music and some singing experience is helpful. This group sings at different masses and special liturgies, other than the 10 a.m. Mass, throughout the year. An audition is required for this group. Rehearsals are Monday at 7:30 p.m.

Cantors are ministers who lead the congregational singing particularly where no choir is present. Many also perform as soloists and in small ensembles. Cantors need to rehearse each week at either choir rehearsal in order to be prepared for the weekend liturgies. (Several regularly rehearse and sing in both groups.) Cantors must also audition.

The Adult Handbell Choir rings for occasional masses and special events and as an outreach group at various religious and secular events outside of the church. Some ability to read music is helpful, but not necessary. Rehearsals are at 6 p.m. on Mondays.

Holy Redeemer musicians, both vocal and instrumentalists believe that while a church musician should seek personal gratifications through is or her musical gifts with high standards in music and performance, they must also take satisfaction in first and foremost the task of lifting the hearts and minds of the congregation they serve. For more information regarding the music program at Holy Redeemer Church, contact Richard Newman at the music office 810-743-3050 ext. 19 or at home 810-686-1168.