Music Ministry

SACRED MUSIC:
The assembly of the faithful, the people in the pews, is above all other musical organizations, the principal choir of the parish and is the primary means that all parishioners can participate in the music of the Liturgy.

Our Roman Catholic Church is steeped in a rich and noble sacred music tradition of nearly two thousand years.  From the very beginning of the Church, the faithful sang the praises of God in their worship.  Even on the last night of Jesus’ earthly life, he and his disciples went to the Mount of Olives, singing hymns of praise. (Matthew 26:30)

When we celebrate the Mass, we are called to join our voices with the heavenly choirs of angels singing, “Holy, Holy, Holy.”  We become part of the universal and Divine Liturgy of praise and thanksgiving.  Our “music making” is directed to God and is always an offering of our best gifts and talents.

Senior Choir :
The Senior Choir is open to anyone of high school age or above who is interested in singing in praise to God. The ability to read music, while helpful, is not required. The Senior Choir rehearses weekly from September through May on Wednesday evening at 7:00, and sings at weekend liturgies, alternating between the Saturday Vigil Mass and Sunday's 11:00 Mass. The Senior Choir also sings at the liturgies of Christmas, Holy Week and Easter.

The Senior Choir is currently comprised of approximately twenty singers, ranging from high school students through retirees. For further information, please call the Director of Music.

Hand bell Choir:
The Handbell Choir is open to anyone of high‑school age or above. The ability to read music is very helpful. The Handbell Choir rehearses weekly from late September through Easter (or later on Saturday afternoon from 1:00 to 3:00. The Handbell Choir rings periodically throughout the year and assists at the liturgies of Christmas and Easter. Saint Joseph Church has three and one half octaves of Schulmerich hand bells.

The Hand bell Choir is currently comprised of six ringers. For further information, please call the Director of Music.

1874 Steere & Turner Organ at St. Joseph:
The organ in the west end of the Church was installed in 1874 by the Steere & Turner Company of Westfield, Massachusetts. It was completely restored in 1989 by Charles Aitken and Son of Torrington, Connecticut. Now extensive work has been undertaken to add a choir division and expand the pedal while extending its compass to 32 notes. The work is completed and the Current Specifications are: