Music Ministry
-
St. Joseph the Worker & Holy Family
Music Ministry Q & A
Q: Are SJTW & HF currently looking for more cantors, pianists, guitarists & general musicians?
A: We are ALWAYS looking for people to join. Please always reach out if interested!
*********************************************************************************************************************
Q: What skills do I need to have to be a cantor?
A: Cantors should have a basic working knowledge of the flow of Mass, be able to sing reasonably in tune, project well, read music, and be willing to spend time listening ahead to new songs & learn them at home.
*********************************************************************************************************************
Q: What skills do I need to have to be a piano accompanist or guitarist?
A: Pianists & guitarists should have a basic working knowledge of the flow of Mass, be proficient in note reading, able to lead rehearsal before mass, and understand how to keep a steady beat & create an introduction before songs.
*********************************************************************************************************************Q: Who makes up your typical music team for weekend Masses?
A: Weekend Masses are always led by a piano accompanist and/or guitarist with at least one cantor.
*********************************************************************************************************************Q: Do I have to sing by myself if I'm a cantor? (I have anxiety!)
A: Cantors can ask for a singing buddy if they are uncomfortable singing alone and our Music Director will honor that request. (She has experience with performance anxiety & is very empathetic)
*********************************************************************************************************************
Q: Do I get music to prepare if I join the music ministry?
A: Each cantor & accompanist is provided the music they require to prepare at home for Masses well in advance. Pianists get a large binder & responsorial psalm booklet. Cantors get a hymnal and responsorial psalm booklet. Each new schedule goes out at least 3 weeks beforehand. Two months of music are typically planned at a given time.
*********************************************************************************************************************Q: When does the music ministry go out & how do I get signed up to sing/play?
A: Our Liturgical Music Director selects the music for about 2 months worth of music OR the next upcoming season in the church. The music is run by the Pastor for final approval. We use a 2 step process for scheduling:
Step 1: All musicians are emailed a google sign up link for all Masses listed. (Generally two months at a time) Volunteer musicians sign up by editing the document & typing their name in the slot they want. This is first come/first serve with dates. Paid musicians are asked to put down their availability off to the side.
Step 2: The Director fills in gaps with paid musician names and tries to fully fill all Masses with musicians. Mary does her best to email the finalized music music selections & ministry schedule two weeks before it goes into affect.*********************************************************************************************************************
Do I need to volunteer my time or can I get paid as a musician for my work?
A: As of 2024, any musician with a history of prior music training or playing experience can be paid. Simply inquire when emailing or texting our music director. We pay $75/service, paid out within a month of your service.
*********************************************************************************************************************
Q: How early do I need to show up if I'm leading music?
A: Musicians are asked to arrive 1 hour before the start of Mass to run through all the music and be ready.
***********************************************************************************
Interested in joining?
Contact Mary Flanagan, Liturgical Music Director, by texting her at 507-276-8747 OR email her at: [email protected].(scroll for additional ministry opportunities!)
Youth Choir
Comes together to sing for youth Masses during the faith formation year.Currently meets on Wednesdays before or after faith formation, depending on the location. The SJTW Youth Choir meets BEFORE faith formation from 5:15-6 pm in the church in Mankato. The HF Youth Choir meets AFTER faith formation from 7:15-8 pm in the church in Lake Crystal.
Please sign up so that we can prepare a music binder for you!
Comes together to enhance the liturgy of Holy Week and Christmas seasons.The chancel choir is currently preparing to sing at Christmas! Currently, we are seeking choir members of all vocal ranges! Practice will be held on Thursdays at 6:30 pm in the choir loft of St. Joseph The Worker. Current rehearsal nights are set for November 7th, 14th, 21st & December 5th, 12th & 18th.
Please sign up so that we can prepare a music binder for you!Bell Choir
Comes together to enhance the liturgy of the Christmas season.
***Details coming soon!