Who are the Young Catholic Musicians?
The Young Catholic Musicians are talented young singers and instrumentalists from throughout the Metro St. Louis area. These young people, aged ten through twentyone, form an orchestra and choir of one hundred musicians.
What is the purpose of the Young Catholic Musicians?
The Young Catholic Musicians learn quality liturgical music, arranged for full orchestra and choir. Once each month, the young people lead the music for Mass at various churches.
The Young Catholic Musicians also perform two conerts during the year. In December, they perform a Christmas concert of sacred music (classical and contemporary). The young people take this concert on a weekend tour in January. They travel to a city located within a hundred and fifty mile radius of St. Louis
A Spring concert featuring popular and patriotic music is performed in May. The young people perform this concert during a nine-day tour the second week of June, after school is completed. The Young Catholic Musicians Summer Tour destinations include: New York City, Washington, D.C., Toronto, Orlando, Denver, New Orleans, etc.
Tell me more about the choir and orchestra.
The choir (including sopranos, altos, tenors and basses) gives strong vocal support to the congregation during Mass, encouraging full and active participation. The orchestra (composed of strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion) enhances and energizes the sung prayer.
Am I eligible for membership?
The Young Catholic Musicians, founded in 1974, is open to people from all religious traditions, realizing that their talents and services will most often be dedicated to the congregations at Catholic parishes. The minimum age for singers is 10 years.
There are no fees or dues included in membership.
When and where are rehearsals?
Rehearsals are held two times a month. A schedule is published prior to the start of each season. Rehearsals are held at 816 Allen St., across from historic Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Soulard.
How can I become a member?
To schedule an audition or for more information contact Fr. Bruce Forman, the Director of Music, at 314-231-7464 (or email him at revycm@charter.net), or Mrs. Mary Smith, the Director of Organization, at 314-962-9260 (or email her at smithycm@sbcglobal.net).
