PASTORAL MUSICIANS
All singers and instrumentalists are welcome to join ÄÌÌÇÖ±²¥ Pastoral Musicians, an ensemble of about 40 undergraduate and graduate students. Inspired by the life of St. Augustine, the Pastoral Musicians serve an important role in the life of the University community by inspiring congregational song and offering music at Sunday evening and University-wide Masses.
In addition to their primary role of service in the sacred Liturgy, the Pastoral Musicians engage in a search for meaning together as an intentional and inclusive community. Opportunities for cultivating relationships, developing spiritual awareness and honing musical skills allow for a unique and valuable ÄÌÌÇÖ±²¥ experience.
Inspired by the social teachings of the Church, the Pastoral Musicians seek to promote sustainability and justice, especially through the careful procurement and presentation of repertoire, and thoughtful programming of works, to engage and expand the canon of sacred music within Liturgies and concerts.
Through these efforts, the Pastoral Musicians seek to inspire meditation on the beauty and mystery of God.
An annual performance pilgrimage has become a hallmark of the Pastoral Musicians experience, and past sites have included New York City, Washington, D.C. and Vatican City.
Vocalists
Singers, novice and advanced, are always welcome to join. The ability to read music is a welcome skill, but not required for membership. In fact, sight reading and other musical skills will likely improve during your time with the ensemble! All members are asked to participate in a listening session with the Director, Sean McElwee. This is not an audition, but an easy way to determine your voice part and identify your skills and areas for growth.Â
In addition to the choir, there are other vocal leadership opportunities. Cantors lead congregational song and psalmists proclaim the responsorial psalm during the Liturgy of the Word. Participation in these roles is determined by audition. These roles are not solo opportunities, but occasions for important ministry.Â
Instrumentalists
Students who play an instrument are welcome to join the Pastoral Musicians. Because we are responsible for weekly offerings, foundational music-reading skills will help instrumentalists be most successful. Still, improvisational playing is welcome and can even be developed during your time with the ensemble.
Our group currently includes instruments from the string, woodwind, brass and percussion families. We work together as an ensemble to achieve the best sound, whether working with the singers on congregational hymns, major works or offering instrumental pieces.
Students who have intermediate/advanced piano/keyboard skills are welcome to assist with whole group rehearsals, sectionals and ensemble leadership at the Sunday evening Masses. If you sight read well and/or have prior choral/instrumental accompaniment experience, please contact the Director right away.
Students with advanced piano training will be offered the opportunity to accompany Sunday liturgies and concerts.
Caritas Program
Caritas is a formational program for Pastoral Musicians. Caritas seeks to develop the spirit and skills of each Pastoral Musician, prepare repertoire for the school year, build relationships and prepare and present music for the Orientation Liturgies.
Returning students who have prior choral, band or orchestral experience, as well as any new comers who want to begin their experience with this training program are strongly encouraged to register.
Students will:
- Participate in skills work
- Receive repertoire training
- Participate in team-building activities
- Share in spiritual reflection
- Lead music for various Liturgies
- Move into their rooms earlier than the rest of the student body
Getting Involved
To register, send an email to Sean McElwee. There is no fee and meals are provided. Those registering for Caritas are expected to attend all Caritas-related rehearsals and activities. Please plan accordingly.
Fall 2024 Schedule
Registration Deadline: Friday, July 19
Move In: Friday, August 16 - Sunday, August 18
Program Dates: Caritas begins Sunday, August 18 at 12 pm and concludes on the evening of Sunday, August 28.