The Music Ministry at St. Michael the Archangel Parish is an opportunity to spread the Gospel that touches the heart and soul in a way that ordinary words cannot. The gift of music deepens our understanding of God and transforms His Word with a beauty that draws all people to Himself. Although we strive to make music at the highest level for His praise, our philosophy of creating a community bound by this gift is more important. Our choirs include people who have degrees in music as well as people who are not able to read music at all. We strive to be family- people drawn together to make serious music, but also people who pray, help each other at home and work, and just enjoy spending time together. If you are looking for a ministry that challenges you to be bigger than yourself and where you feel you belong, come and see the beauty of God ministered through His gift of music.

Parish Choir (10:00AM Mass)

Rehearsal: Thursdays 7:00PM - 9:00PM

The Parish Choir sings at our Parish High Mass.  Our first purpose is to enable the people of God (the assembly) to sing.  Through the singing of hymns and chants, we instill confidence in those who come to receive the Sacrament of the Eucharist. Music styles reflect the nature of the Mass readings with everything from the Classical choral repertoire to Gospel and folk music of other cultures. We present choral meditations and inspirational pieces that encourage the people of God to pray. 

This is a volunteer choir and we recognize that people have working and family responsibilities. Although we want you to attend as often as possible, online resources and recordings are available for personal preparation.  We are happy with whatever time you can give whether it be every rehearsal and Mass or just once a month. There is no audition, but a personal interview with the director is appreciated. All ages from high school to advance adulthood are welcome.

Bilingual Choir (12:00PM Mass)

Rehearsal: Tuesdays 7:00PM - 9:00PM

The purpose of the bilingual Mass is to share the Gospel and Sacraments as in our other Masses but also include music and readings that welcome those from other cultures (primarily Spanish).  The standards of the choir are the same as the Parish Choir, but with an emphasis on the bilingual nature of the Mass.  Knowledge of Spanish is helpful but not required.  This is a great environment to learn to express the beauty of God in varied styles and languages.

Latin Schola (11:00PM Traditional Latin Mass)

Rehearsal: Saturdays 9:00AM - 10:30AM

Our Latin Schola is open to all who wish to celebrate the Mass in the Traditional Latin Rite.  Knowledge of Latin is not required—only a willingness to learn.  Because of the nature of how chant is sung, singers are required to learn chant notation.  The atmosphere is open and encouraging but a commitment to studying outside the rehearsals is necessary.

Instrumental Players (Variety of Masses)

Rehearsal: By Appointment

People who play instruments of any kind are encouraged to contact the director and participate as much as they are able.  Large instrumental ensembles are used at Christmas and Easter Masses and a brass ensemble is used at all Solemnities and Feast Days.  Instruments are used periodically at other Masses to accompany the choirs or provide solo meditations.  Individuals who have learned to play an instrument in school or played in school and college ensembles are encouraged to keep playing and not abandon this part of their life.  The Church and Masses are a great way to keep playing lifelong!

Cantors - Needed For All Masses 

We have a group of people who help to lead Masses musically when our choirs are not present.  You do not need to be a professional vocalist to be a cantor, but you do need to be confident and willing to prepare outside of Mass.  Cantors meet once a year for an enrichment workshop and periodically with the music director.

Christmas and Easter Choirs (Nov/Dec – Mar/Apr)

Rehearsal: Thursdays 7:00PM-9:00PM

At the high feasts of Christmas and Easter, people and friends of the parish are invited to come and sing for the Christmas and Triduum Masses.  This is a short-term opportunity perfect for those who are in town seasonally or not able to make a long-term choir commitment.  Many times, a cantata performance and singing with our instrumental ensembles is a highlight of this choir. 

Handbell Choir (Various Masses)

Rehearsal: Wednesdays 7:00PM-9:00PM

Handbells were created in Catholic worship!  Our handbell ensemble plays at different Masses throughout the academic year and has appeared at different concerts and Tenebrae as well.  The ensemble is open to people of all ages and new ringers are always needed!  A basic knowledge of reading music is required.  The handbell choir is directed by Wes King who brings a fun and learn by doing atmosphere to the group.  Wes is also the Director of Bands for the University of Findlay.