Music Ministry
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Contact Us
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Dr. Greg Onofrioonofriostmarysamarillo.comMusic and Liturgy Director
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Traditional
Music is central to Catholic worship, and St. Mary’s Catholic Cathedral has a tradition of a vibrant, active, and multi-faceted music ministry. Congregational singing and participation are strongly encouraged and fostered. Music selection is consistent throughout the various Masses so that members of the parish become familiar with the core songs of our church.
Adult Choir
St. Mary’s Choir leads the music for 9:30 Masses, Holy Days, and special services throughout the year. A full orchestra of strings, woodwinds, and brass joins in the celebration of our Christmas Eve 9:00 PM Mass. Other ensembles of strings and brass join us for other Feast Days.
Rehearsals are held each Wednesday evening from 7:00 to 8:30 PM in the Choir Room (office wing).You are invited to join the choir. For more information, please see, call or email Dr. Greg. No auditions or previous choir experience is necessary. ALL ARE WELCOME!
Diocesan Choir
St. Mary’s is the home to the Diocesan Choir which leads the assembly in song at our special Diocesan-wide liturgies with the Bishop. This choir is open to ALL SINGERS AND MUSICIANS OF THE DIOCESE. No auditions are ever required. Most rehearsals are held immediately prior to the actual liturgy in order to minimize travel for those coming from distant parishes. A full schedule of Diocesan Choir events is posted regularly in the West Texas Catholic newspaper. Please contact Dr. Greg if you are interested.
Cantors
If you feel called to lead the assembly in song as a solo Cantor, please contact Dr. Greg. Cantors serve at our Saturday 5:30 PM, Sunday 8:00 AM Masses, Holy Days, and along with the Choir at our Sunday 9:30 Mass.
Instrumentalists
If you play an instrument and would like to serve in our music ministry, please know that you are always welcome. A professional composer and arranger, Dr. Greg will be happy to work with you and to provide specialized parts that suit your ability on any instrument. -
Contemporary
What is this?
A vibrant, energetic music ministry that leads the congregation and teens closer to Christ-centered on the Eucharist. Music is selected based on the 3-year liturgical cycle utilizing Traditional music along with contemporary Christian composers.
When is this?
We have rehearsals on Thursday nights from 6:30 to 8:00 pm. We also participate in Diocesan activities and lead Adoration/Praise and Worship for Youth-related events across the Texas Panhandle. We also are available for other liturgical settings such as weddings and funerals.
Where is this?
Our rehearsals and Mass are held in St. Mary's Sanctuary. Other events may be held off-premises.
Who and What is needed?
We use a variety of instruments and vocalists. We need all types of voices. We use piano, electric keyboard, drums, guitar - both acoustic and electric, bass and congas, to name a few.
How do I join this ministry?
First, you should be an identifiable member of St. Mary's Cathedral. Second, we need your name and contact information along with what you desire to help us with. Third, you will be asked to attend up to 6 rehearsals then perform or sing for the group. There is limited space available due to the sound system restrictions.
Are there other ways I can help?
Yes, there are! As with each Mass here at St. Mary's, volunteers are needed in many aspects. We need a sound person at each Mass to help our Liturgies be the best we can have. We also need slide ministers to help on a rotating basis putting the words and music up for the congregation so we can all become fully active and conscious participants in liturgy - the source and summit of our faith.