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Wednesday, December 01, 2004

The Mass Under A Microscope: the role of the choir

Here and on other blogs, I've gotten into vigorous discussions on the role of the choir at Mass. Here's what IGRM has to say in section 103:

Among the faithful, the schola cantorum or choir exercises its own liturgical function, ensuring that the parts proper to it, in keeping with the different types of chants, are properly carried out and fostering the active participation of the faithful through the singing. What is said about the choir also applies, in accordance with the relevant norms, to other musicians, especially the organist.

The choir's main role is not to entertain, though it could do that within the bounds of liturgy. It is not to provide a spiritual atmosphere, though again it could do that. The liturgical role of the choir, according to the Roman Missal, is to sing well and to lead the active sung participation of the faithful. Any liturgical minister taking the place of a choir (a lone organist, a songleader, a cantor, a duet, or whomever) takes upon this role. Does this mean there is no place at Mass for the classical repertoire? Certainly not. Choral singing can assist in the unification and prayerful preparation before Mass. Its harmonies can add zest to hymn-singing. On occasion it may take upon itself the parts of the Mass which are proper to its role: the Gloria, psalmody, alleluia verse, the Credo, at Preparation of the Gifts, during or after communion, or even as exit music or a postlude. Nobody says the organist has to fill in all these spots. A well-prepared director leading a well-trained choir has ample opportunity to showcase musical/spiritual talent without horning in on the vitals of sung participation from the pew. Certainly good choirs should be providing their parishes with an opportunity to stretch and show off in concert. So please, hands off the exclusive work on the Sanctus, the Communion Song, and other places where leadership is called for: showing the people how it's done, not doing it for them.

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