St. John the Apostle Catholic Parish

Virginia Beach, VA

Music Ministry

"The primary role of music in the Liturgy is to help the members of the gathered assembly to join themselves with the action of Christ and to give voice to the gift of faith." This statement by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) in the document Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine Worship expresses the ultimate goal of every St. John the Apostle music ministry ensemble. 

Adults who work with children and youth in the music ministry are trained, certified, and registered with “Virtus, Protecting God’s Children” of the Diocese of Richmond.

- Liturgical Music Schedule Cycle A
- Latin Responses Primarily used during Easter and Christmas seasons
- Latin Pronunciation Guide A guide to assist with Latin responses
- Church Children's Choir of Angels
  The Church Children's Choir sings a diverse repertory in unison and two-part format. Though their repertory is suited to grade school children, all styles of music are included.
  
  Director: Parish Office | 757.426.2180 |
  
  Goals & Purpose: To allow children the opportunity to polish their talent as singers and/or musicians; to learn to work together as a group; to learn musical principles; to apply their talents to public performance; to learn the finer points of the Mass; and to make friends and have fun.
  Membership age ranges grades 3rd through 8th.
  
  Responsibilities: To sing on the 3^rd Sunday of each month at the 9:15am Sunday Mass.
  
  Commitment: Attend choir rehearsals once a month on the 2^nd Tuesday of the month before their scheduled Sunday Mass from 3:15-3:45pm.
- Instrumentalists
  Instrumentalists: St. John the Apostle Parish welcomes well-trained instrumentalists to share their talents to enrich the liturgy for special services. In addition to playing instrumental solos, there are also opportunities to accompany the choir on special occasions or as needed.
  Commitment: Attend practice and services as scheduled
- St. John's Adult Choir
  The St. John’s Choir sings a very diverse repertory in the standard SATB format, covering all periods and styles, but focusing on the more traditional sources of music associated with and growing out of the Roman Catholic liturgical music heritage. The age of its members ranges from high school to retirement.
  
  Director: Parish Office | 757.426.2180 |
  
  Goals & Purpose: To provide a wonderful opportunity for parishioners to find their inner voice, to sing in parts and expand their musical and liturgical knowledge and abilities. The choir is one of mixed voices (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) and is a celebration through choral harmony.
  
  Helpful Attributes: The ability to read music is helpful, but not required.
  
  Commitment: Attend choir rehearsals on Wednesdays from 7:00 - 9:00pm in the church, and sing at the 11:00am Sunday Mass and Holy Day liturgies. Commitment/dedication to rehearsals/performances are required.
- School Liturgy Choir
  The School Liturgy Choir sings a diverse repertory in one, two and three-part format and covers all styles and periods of music associated with and growing out of the Roman Catholic musical heritage. Membership in this ensemble is restricted to students enrolled in St. John the Apostle Catholic School. Members are also welcome to participate in the Church Children’s Choir.
  
  Director: Parish Office | 757.426.2180 |
  
  Goals & Purpose: To allow children in grades three - eight the opportunity to polish their talent as singers; to learn to work together as a group; to learn musical principles; to apply their talents to public performance; to learn the finer points of the Mass; and to make friends and have fun.
  
  Responsibilities: Those interested should sign up during the first week of the academic year. The choir sings at the school Mass on Wednesday mornings. To attend rehearsal on Tuesdays after school from 2:45 to 3:30 p.m. in the church.