Music at St. Mary’s
The Choirs of St. Mary’s Cathedral have a distinguished history of service to the Cathedral. Drawing from a wealth of sacred music ranging from Early monophonic chant, 16th Century polyphony, Romantic to Modern, the Cathedral Choirs seeks to offer music characterized by fine tone, rhythmic precision and thoughtful interpretation. The Choir welcomes all who are interested in singing. For more information, please contact:
- Director of Music, Organist and Choir director: Dr. Aurora Dokken
- Associate organist: Mr. Edward J. Brown
- Assistant organist: Mrs. Barbara Szarek
- Piano Accompanist: Mr. Nicholas Walters
The Cathedral Choir
The Cathedral Choir, established in 1842, serves as the principle choir of St. Mary’s Cathedral, singing for the 11:00 a.m. Mass from September to June – and for all major cathedral Masses including the Midnight Mass of Christmas, the Triduum, Archdiocesan celebrations and for functions such as ordinations. A mixed ensemble of volunteers and paid professional section leaders, the Cathedral Choir sings a variety of music from the 12th century to the present day. Sight reading is a plus but not required. Practice materials are provided to all choir members.
Cathedral Choir rehearsals: Wednesday 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Choir rehearsals are held in the Choir room behind the organ loft.
The Choir welcomes all who are interested in singing. For more information, please contact Dr. Aurora Dokken at (613) 546-5521 or by e-mail at < adokken@ucperformingarts.com>.
The Youth Choir
The Youth Choir, comprised of young adults ages 13 to 18, provides a warm and welcoming opportunity to explore vocal and instrumental music in a semi-structured environment. The group meets Fridays at 3:30 p.m. in the Recital Hall of the Academy Building of St. Mary’s, 260 Brock Street.
Please contact us for further information at (613) 546-5521.
The Junior Choir
The Junior Choir, comprised of Boys and Girls ages 8 to 13, provides an exceptional opportunity for children to learn exciting music of significance, to grow artistically and to engage in their own musical faith formation. Great music, a good snack and action-packed rehearsals make Junior Choir a valuable and invigorating experience. The Junior Choir performs with the Cathedral Choir for Archdiocesan liturgical celebrations and at concerts in December and April.
Junior Choir rehearsals are held in the Choir Room of the Cathedral, Thursdays from 4:00 to – 5:00 p.m. September through April.
Please contact us for further information at (613) 546-5521.
The Training Choir
St. Mary’s Cathedral Training Choir is for children ages 5 to 8. Children are introduced to musical concepts, skills and choral repertoire that will prepare them for the music they will sing in Junior Choir. The Training Choir performs at concerts in December and April.
Training Choir rehearsals are held at the Recital Hall of the Upper Canada Academy of Performing Arts, 260 Brock Street, on Thursday afternoons from 3:15 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., September through April.
Please contact us for further information at (613) 546-5521.
The Celebration Choir
The Celebration Choir comprised of special needs youth and adults, performs an exciting mix of sacred and secular repertoire.
Rehearsals are held in the Recital Hall of Upper Canada Academy of Performing Arts, 260 Brock Street on Thursday 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., September through April.
Please contact us for further information at (613) 546-5521.
Cantors
Cantors lead the singing at the 5:00 p.m. Mass on Saturday and the Masses on Sundays.
Cantors are chosen from the choir. Anyone interested in serving as a cantor should contact Dr. Dokken at (613) 546-5521.
Music for Funerals
Funerals are usually celebrated with organist and cantor, the music being similar to that at a cantored weekend Mass (except for those things particular to a funeral.).
Families who wish to request particular hymns or make other musical arrangements should contact Dr. Aurora Dokken at 546-5521.
Music for Weddings
Couples intending to get married in the Cathedral or St James’ Chapel should obtain the booklet Music at Your Wedding from the priest who is instructing, or from Dr. Aurora Dokken at 546-5521.
Upper Canada Academy of Performing Arts
The Academy is housed in the former St. Mary’s school and provides a comprehensive conservatory program which allows students to develop skills necessary for musical and artistic growth. Highly qualified instructors provide private lessons in voice, piano, organ, harpsichord, recorder, violin, cello, gamba, brass, woodwind and percussion, Dance, Theatre, Creative Writing and more. Ensembles and chamber music coaching provide opportunities for students to make music together. Recitals, Concerts and theatre productions are held in the Recital Hall and theatres of the Academy.
Courses in theory, history, composition, arranging and Dalcroze, movement to music, a Moms and Tots Little Mozart program and Puppet Theatre courses are offered for all ages. Workshops are offered on a regular basis.
For scheduling information and registration for lessons and classes please drop by 260 Brock Street, call (613) 546-5521 or visit http://ucperformingarts.com .