CANTORS & ENSEMBLES
CANTORS
Cantors are those who help lead the assembly in proclaiming God's Word and praising God in Song. This Ministry is for grades 7th and up.
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION:
If you are able, please sign up for Eucharistic Adoration held the first Friday of every month. We need representation from the music ministry and what a great way to spend some time with Jesus. It isn't necessary to sign up, but if you do, please put a "W" after your name to show that you represented music ministry.
Summary/reminders of the cantor training session (March 2009):
PLEASE REMEMBER TO PRAY BEFORE CANTORING MASS.
1. Before beginning any songs, adjust the mics to match your height. Keep about one hand's (thumb to finger spread) width from the cantor mic when announcing song numbers. Repeat hymn numbers twice. At the refrain and all the verses be sure to step into the mic so the congregation knows where we are (in case their mind has wandered), then step back from the mic in order to allow your voice to blend with the congregation. When singing hymns the cantor voice should not overpower the congregation, but should not be so soft that the congregation is lost. Finding balance is the key. Always invite the congregation to sing by raising your arms in time for them to come in right at the beginning, using inviting facial expression and eye contact with the congregation.
2. BEFORE MASS, read all the words to all the hymns, psalm, etc so that you are familiar with them.
3. Except Masses where the Knights of the Holy Temple are present, the gospel acclamation should begin before the 2nd reader has time to sit down in the pew. The cantor should be prepared to give the accompanist the start sign as the accompanist may not be able to see the reader. For Masses with the Knights, Father will place incense in the burner and stand. It is at that point the gospel acclamation should begin.
4. Remember to angle your body to allow your focus and that of the congregation's to be the altar during all the Mass parts. Using your left arm to bring in the congregation will allow all to see and it will keep the cantor from closing their own body off from the altar.
5. Continue to announce communion hymns and remind the congregation that we remain standing until all have received. Help the accompanist to know when all have received communion, keeping in mind that the far west of the church is difficult to see from the piano or organ and the hymn needs to continue (if verses are still available) until all have received.
5. Any song changes, order of communion songs, etc must be approved by Sandra in advance. As a general rule, there should be no deviation from the song list due to the liturgical flow of the selected songs.
6. Cantor rehearsal will take place on Tuesday evening from 7 - 7:30 or after choir practice at 9. Giannina will also be available one hour prior to Mass starting to rehearse with the cantor for that Mass.
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