Our parish choir is directed by our Music Director, Glen Segger. It is made up of a dedicated group of adult volunteers who are assisted by four talented section leaders. We sing weekly at the Sunday 10:30 am Mass. We also sing several special liturgies throughout the year, such as Vespers and Lessons and Carols. Our wide repertoire spans centuries of sacred music, from Gregorian Chant and Renaissance polyphony to classical, Romantic, and modern anthems and motets. Rehearsals are Thursdays from 7:30-9:00 pm. While it is always a valuable asset to read music, the ability to read music is secondary to the genuine enthusiasm of wanting to sing praise to the Almighty.

We are always looking for new members to join our ranks. If you are interested in becoming a member of our Parish Choir, please come up to the organ after any Mass to speak with Glen. You are also welcome to email him at Glen.Segger@stpeterdanb.org, or simply fill out the form at the bottom of this page. Our first rehearsal of the 2021-2022 season will be September 9, 2021.

What are the benefits of joining the choir?
There are many benefits to joining the choir. These include: 1) the satisfaction of knowing that you are serving in an important ministry of the church; 2) the joy of learning new and exciting music; 3) learning about the history of and theology behind the music we sing; and 4) being a part of a vibrant community of fun people. Recent studies have also revealed that there are significat physical, mental, and emotional benefits to singing in a choir. These include lowering blood pressure, hightening cognitive awareness, and improving emotional well being. Indeed, choral singing is a great source for stress release!

What kind of music does the parish choir sing?
The role of the parish choir is to lead the congregation in singing, and to enrich the beaury of the Mass. We lead the congregation in singing hymns, psalms, and the responses of the Mass. During the offertory and communion, we sing anthems and motets to enrich the beauty of the Mass. Our repertoire spans many centuries, from Gregorian Chant and renaissance polyphony to music of the great Romantic and Modern composers. 

Do I need to be able to read music to join the choir?
While it is certainly is an asset to be able to read music, it is by no means necessary. The most important quality of a choir member is to love and appreciate singing. Much of the music we sing, such as the hymns, psalms, and resposes, are easily learned. For more challenging repertoire, our Music Director will give links to online "music tracks" that can be practiced at home. Our Music Director will also provide music reading classes to improve your music reading skills.

Will I need to audition?
We all know that formal auditions can be intimidating and judgemental (did I pass or did I fail?). Because singing in a church choir is a ministry of the Church, our Music Director, Glen Segger, strongly believes that wanting to join the choir is more of a discernment process. Glen will meet with all prospective choir members. This gives him the opportunity to describe our choir ministry in more detail, and allows you to ask questions about our program. Glen will also sing with you to determine the potential of your voice; not in the context of judgement, but discrenment.