Saint Jerome

Music Ministry

"I never dreamed that joining the choir would help me become so involved in my church and community"

"I left choir rehearsal with one thought: WOW!"

"Helping with the choir is a fun and rewarding experience."

"Our church choir gives me the opportunity to further my relationship with God, be with the people I love, and have fun - all at the same time!"

"I now know what it means to sing the liturgy - singing the words of worship with  energy and meaning."

 

 

Our Music Director and Organist, Eric Hoffman, began service at Saint Jerome in 2000. His expertise helps support the Liturgy and the documents of the Second Vatican Council through the latest Liturgy and music documents coming from the Vatican. He is an active member of The American Guild of Organists (AGO) Waterbury Chapter, and has served on the executive board of the Hartford Chapter AGO for 4 years. He teaches piano privately and plays clarinet in the West Hartford Symphony Orchestra.  He is a third degree Knight in the Daly Council 12 Knights of Columbus and is the council's recording secretary.  Eric graduated with a music degree from The Hartt School of Music in 1999.

Check out information on how you can join our music ministry:

 

 

THE PARISH CHOIR                                                                     Top

The Saint Jerome Parish Choir is always seeking new members.  The choir sings each Sunday at the 10:30 a.m. Mass until Pentecost Sunday, which usually falls in the late part of May. There are also special liturgies that include the Choir.  Those include (and are not limited to) Christmas, Holy Week, Easter, First Holy Communion, Confirmation and other special liturgies.

No audition is required.  The only pre-requisites are:

  1. A love of singing

  2. A strong appreciation for sacred song.

  3. The ability to hold a tune

  4. A minor commitment of your time.

Choirs are traditionally formed in parishes to enhance the liturgy, via support and leading of congregational singing, and via a rich tradition of sacred choral works.     

Please consider being part of this sacred tradition.

 

CANTORS                                                                                       Top

At present we have two outstanding singers, Marietta and Jim. Their responsibility is to lead the congregation in song, and to proclaim the Responsorial Psalm and various acclamations.  Cantors are scheduled for all Masses and are to be blended in with the Choir at times. Opportunities are open to sing for Weddings, Funerals and other parish events sacred and secular.   This is a paid position. Auditions are required. 

 

INSTRUMENTALISTS                                                                   Top

Are you interested in playing your instrument with us for special liturgies...Christmas, Easter and maybe more? We want to hear from you! Auditions on  your instrument will be required. 

Please consider this a voluntary offering if you are a member of the parish. This can be an excellent opportunity for Confirmation students to use as a Service Project. Develop your performing skills while also worshiping in a new way. Opportunities are open to play for Weddings and other parish events sacred and secular.

If you are interested in sharing your talents or want more information about the Music Ministry please see Eric in the choir loft, call or email. 

 

 

MUSIC GUIDELINES FOR WEDDINGS AND FUNERALS       Top

All music must be in compliance with the Archdiocese of Hartford being sacred or classical.

Recorded music of any kind is not permitted inside the Church.

Visiting musicians are expected to respect the polices of the Director of Music.

The music director will not pay for any musician(s) or cantor/soloist(s). It is the responsibility of the couple to pay for other musicians. Fees may vary – please consult the Director of Music on suggestions or help

 

 

E V E NT S

 

LESSONS & CAROLS                                                                      Top

Sunday December 2, 2007 at 3:00 pm "First Sunday of Advent"

A tradition at St. Jerome's since 2004, the Festival of Lessons & Carols tells the story of the birth of the Messiah through readings, musical performances by the choir and participation from the congregation singing familiar carols and hymns.  The service will begin at 3pm with a organ performance of pieces musically illustrating the Christmas season.

The service is based on the original Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols, which began at Kings College, Cambridge, in 1918. Since that day, Lessons & Carols has been a holiday tradition widely broadcasted and emulated throughout the world.

The public is invited to attend. A free-will offering will be collected.

If you would like to be a reader, bake something or help out in any way please call the music office at ext. 16.  Check out our poster

 

EVENSONG: 

PRAYER SERVICE FOR THE ANNIVERSARY YEAR                 Top

Sunday January 6, 2008 at 3:00 pm

In the earliest traditions of the church, as darkness fell and the hymn of praise of Christ who is "radiant light..." was resounded, the faithful gathered in the evening to give thanks for the day that is ending.

This special evening will mark the 50th anniversary of the Saint Jerome Church. 

 

ORGAN IMPROVISATIONS                                                             Top

Part of the 50th anniversary events scheduled for 2008 (date and time TBA)

Music Director and Organist, Eric Hoffman will perform organ improvisations on the stained glass windows in Saint Jerome Church. A musical reflection - more out of the ordinary. A free-will offering will be collected.

 

 
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