Music has a rich tradition and history within our faith, traced all the way back to the Book of Psalms in the bible, which we use as Responsorial Psalms at every Mass. From Gregorian chant to the present day “upbeat” music of contemporary artists, we have many selections available to us as leaders in the music ministry.
Here at Sacred Heart we embrace all flavors of music in an effort to best connect our community with songs and hymns that not only fit with the readings of the day but also help us to recall the messages learned. Music is and always has been an important part of our Catholic liturgy, no matter what form it takes, whether it’s solemn and meditative, community inspiring, or something fun to sing along with as we leave the church building. As the Choir Director, I am always working to best meet the needs of our parish with my music selections.
As a youth minister and friend once jokingly said, “God gave you a voice. If it’s a good one, then He deserves to hear it. If it’s a bad one, then he really deserves to hear it.” As such, we encourage everyone to participate from their place in the pews. A more well known quote would be “those who sing, pray twice.”
We encourage anyone who is interested to join the choir. There is no requirement. All are welcome! Our choir practices are focused on making sure everyone is comfortable singing for the songs of the weekend while also challenging ourselves to improve with specially chosen choral anthems. (And sneaking in a little bit of music theory knowledge to better prepare everyone when it comes to reading music.)
Choir Practices: Sunday Morning at 9:30 a.m.
Part of our music ministry also expands to the children and youth of the parish, where we practice a song each Sunday before PSR and allow the children to perform for the parish family after mass once a month. The children not only learn words to some of our more current contemporary Christian songs, but also work out hand motions and dances - or incorporate rhythm with shakers and other musical instruments.
Children Practice: Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. Children Performance: 2nd Sunday of every month after the 10:30 Youth Mass
Piano Lessons are available by appointment. Rate is $20 a lesson, with lessons planned for 30 minutes once a week. Feel free to call, text, or email to schedule a time now. (I can meet you at your house if you have a piano or meet at Sacred Heart or St Jude (in Benton) depending on what is most convenient). Note: You do not need to have a piano or keyboard at home to practice, but it will make the student’s progress much easier and faster if they do.
Clarinet Lessons are also available by appointment, at $25 a lesson. Everything else is the same as above. Thank you!
Note: You must have your own clarinet brought to lessons.
COVID-19 Notice: -Choir practice and children music is on hold until further notice from our bishop, as well as choir at mass and singing participation in the pews. Lessons are still available. I will wear a mask, follow social distance rules, and make sure the piano at the church is sanitized before and after every lesson.