Come Sing in One of Our Choirs!

In a Lutheran understanding of worship, the role of solo voices, choir, organ and other instruments is to enhance the musical participation by the congregation. This is accomplished by supporting and enriching the singing of congregational hymns; bringing richness and variety to worship as portions of the liturgy are entrusted to those who have rehearsed on behalf of the congregation; and presenting attendant music as appropriate and possible. (From the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians Statement on Worship and Music

The Festival Choir prepares hymns, liturgical music, and various musical offerings to enhance worship at St. Mark’s. We are ever mindful that the music we prepare serves to worship God as we sing Lutheran chorales, plainsong, polyphony, spirituals, and more. We sing music written by composers long dead and those who are writing today. Some of our music requires many weeks of intense practice and some is ready after only a rehearsal or two.

We are always looking for new singers, but have a particular need for basses right now. There is no audition, but some experience singing in a choir is preferred. The ability to read music is not required, but it is helpful. Through hard work and practice, you’ll be reading music before you know it. The Festival choir sings at the 11:00 service on Sunday morning and at other liturgical observances (Epiphany and Ascension, for example) throughout the year. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evening in the music suite 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. We also rehearse on Sunday morning (during the regular year) at 10:30.

The Matins Choir is a smaller group, providing musical leadership at the 8:30 service. These singers meet on Sunday morning at 8:00 to rehearse service music for the day and to learn an easy musical offering. Members of this group often sing with the Festival Choir for larger events. If you like to sing, but cannot attend a midweek rehearsal, we would love to have you join us.

This year the Kingdom Choir will transform into a robed choir! Rather than coming forward to sing a musical offering, they will wear robes and help lead the full liturgy once each month. Membership in this group is open to all children in grades 1 through 6. The choir rehearses on Sunday morning after the 11:00 service for about 1 hour. There is no audition and church membership is not a requirement to sing! Contact Tony Cruz, or any choir member, if you have any questions.