Gloria Dei Schola

At our English Masses on 5:30pm Saturday, 9:00am Sunday, and 11:30 a.m. Sunday Mass and on holy days and designated basilica celebrations, our Gloria Dei Schola, directed by Maria Rist, leads the singing of the Ordinary, a selection of chant and choral Propers, and congregational hymns. They also offer a selection of polyphonic motets and other sacred choral music at each Mass. The pipe organ is played, and occasionally other instruments are played, as appropriate to the season.

Membership in the Gloria Dei Schola

This advanced ensemble accepts singers who can commit to regularly singing the Mass each weekend, as well as holy day Masses. Balance among the choral parts is important in this ensemble, and thus at certain times this group may invite new singers for certain voice parts (i.e., soprano, alto, tenor, and bass). Although it is primarily an adult ensemble, advanced youth singers may be invited. Attendance at an intense weekly Thursday rehearsal from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. is required, as well as the commitment to learn one's own part between rehearsals. Ability to match pitch and blend in the choir (non-vibrato) is essential. Due to the challenging repertory of music, some ability to read music (in either chant or modern notation) is important. Sight singing skills and vocal technique will be developed and improved by participation in this ensemble. Also, audio samples are provided for most of the music to aid in learning.

* Gloria Dei means glory of God. As Psalm 115:1 proclaims, Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto Thy Name give the praise...We sing and serve for the glory of God!