See the Cathedral Choir Poster Here
Thank you for your interest in auditioning for the Cathedral Choir at the Cathedral Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul! This is a well-regarded group of musicians from different walks of life, ranging from doctors to lawyers to those with literary backgrounds, mixed in with classically trained professional singers. Read below to see if this group might be right for you.
- COMMITMENT
The Cathedral Choir meets every Thursday evening from 7:30-9:30pm and sings each Sunday morning at the 11:00am mass (except once a month at 9:30am). The level of repertoire for this group requires regular attendance and a steady commitment to learning music at a fast pace.
- MUSICIANSHIP
While degrees and formal training are not required, a basic concept of sight reading, rhythm, and pitch accuracy is desired. We check notes and correct issues throughout the rehearsal process, but practice at home may be necessary to keep up with the demands of the weekly mass. The group includes several professional singers in each section who help to guide the sections and enhance the musical experience for all involved.
- AN APPRECIATION FOR BEAUTIFUL THINGS
Staying true to our Catholic roots, we sing a significant amount of Latin repertoire, traditional chant, and works of the great composers. Traditional masters such as Mozart, Mendelssohn, Palestrina, and Byrd are a regular part of our program. But it doesn’t stop there! We also sing the music of contemporary greats such as Lukazewski, Whitacre, Pärt and more. Where better to sing these great pieces than in one of the most beautiful and acoustically-magnificent buildings in Philadelphia?
Worried about parking? There’s free parking in the lot of the Cathedral for your use during rehearsals and mass! We’re also just a short walk from Suburban Station and City Hall.
Not Catholic? This choir is open to those people of all faiths! There is no expectation that our singers identify as Catholic/Christian. However, we take our role very seriously as ministers of music, and ask that all choristers be respectful and committed to increasing the spirituality of the service. We believe that “Music adds flesh to prayer.”
- RECORDINGS
Please contact Charlene Angelini, Director of Cathedral Parish Music, at cangelini@archphila.org for more information on how or to schedule an audition.
