Music Essay: Let the Harmonies Begin

Sep 13, 2023

The St. Ignatius Loyola Children’s Choirs are starting a brand-new season, and I want to extend an invitation to every child to consider joining today. I’m especially excited about the Training Choir, where kids in Kindergarten-2nd grade get to explore community music-making in a safe, skill-building environment! Studies show that participating in a children’s choir builds confidence, improves communication skills, and leads to a life-long love of music. Our choristers also learn the secrets of vocal technique, talk about the stories behind sacred music in liturgy, and get hands-on experience in functional music theory with composition and collaborative improvisation.

So, what does a typical week look like? We have weekly rehearsals where we work collaboratively to prepare for participating in Sunday liturgies. We also play a part in the annual Christmas Concerts (not to be missed). This year, we’re also adding our very own concert, where you’ll be able to see our entire musical journey. Other opportunities include participating in workshops, choral festivals, interfaith community services, and more. We’ve got an incredible season planned, and I can’t wait to see what we will do together.

Our Choirs

  • Training Choir – Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
    • NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE REQUIRED.
    • Rehearsals held Wednesdays from 4:30 PM-5:00 PM.
  • Angel Choir – 2nd Grade – 4th Grade
    • PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE PREFERRED.
    • Rehearsals held Wednesdays 3:15 PM-4:15 PM.
  • Chorale – 4th Grade – 8th Grade
    • PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE REQUIRED.
    • Rehearsals held Thursdays 4:15 PM-5:30 PM.
  • Sign up your child today and watch them flourish in the world of music. For more information and to enroll, reach out to Elizabeth van Os at [email protected]. Let the harmonies begin!

    — Elizabeth van Os, Director of Children’s Choirs