Music has a way of bringing people together and offers an uplifting experience for those of all ages. Here at Queen of the Holy Rosary, we are so blessed to have the Children’s Choir for our elementary and middle school-age parishioners.
“I believe there should be an opportunity for the youth of this parish to participate in the Music Ministry,” says JoAnna Rubino, Music Director. “It can be difficult for youth of all ages to focus their attention on the entirety of a Mass. Participation through music gives them an enjoyable task to do while helping them tune in to the readings and the sacrament of the Eucharist.”
There are between seven to nine children attending rehearsals on a regular basis. So far, the choir has led music at one Mass, but the hope is to sing at the 11 a.m. Mass on the first Sunday of each month. The choir rehearses in the church hall every Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. and is open to any children who wish to participate.
There is no audition required to join the choir. If there is a solo part to assign, the singers will audition for the solo during a rehearsal, which JoAnna says is a relaxed and supportive environment. The only time a student will “audition” is if a high school student wants to join one of the choirs.
“I will audition them to see whether the kids’ choir or the adult choir would be a better fit,” she says.
The Children’s Choir provides the participants with an opportunity to enter into the Mass in a unique experience.
“In addition to hearing the words of the Mass and saying the prayers, they are memorizing and comprehending the words of the Scripture through song,” JoAnna says. “Music not only generates emotional and spiritual connectedness, but it also inspires the same in others as they listen and sing along.”
Participating in the choir also gives the children a way to shift their focus to their faith in a new way, which JoAnna appreciates.
“It provides an opportunity for kids to focus their energy and interests in a way that opens their hearts to the Holy Spirit through their love of music and a collaborative desire to play an active role in their church community,” she says.
The musicians and singers of our parish offer their time, effort, dedication, and hard work. Beyond giving our time and talents, JoAnna acknowledges that there is a lot of work that goes behind the scenes to ensure the music is ready for Mass.
“Singing is physically taxing, mentally and emotionally exhaustive — never mind the teamwork that’s involved!” she says. “Our musicians apply their strength of faith to give of themselves in a way that inspires others to connect with their own faith and better their relationship with God.”
To join, simply show up on a Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. If you have questions, please contact JoAnna Rubino at 913-432-4616.