Pueri 2017
A wonderfully energetic group of nearly 30 children and young adults participated in the very first “Chant Camp” at St. John XXIII Parish this month! The camp was 3 days long, lasting from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on August 16th, 17th, and 18th. Each 5-hour day was led by Mrs. Sharon Burchill, the director of the Pueri Cantorum (Children’s Choir) and High School Choir. Campers were introduced to the fundamentals of Gregorian chant, with lessons and activities teaching chant notation, Latin pronunciation, vocal technique, solfege, and modality. To top it off, the campers learned the chants for the Missa de Angelis, Ubi Caritas, Ave Verum Corpus, and Salve Regina, performing them all very impressively at Sunday’s High Mass on August 20th! A very sincere “thank you” goes to Mrs. Burchill, Fr. Dolan, the Holy Wisdom staff, and the parents of these great kids for their generosity and support of this exciting endeavor. What a blessing to see so many young faces sharing the treasured sacred chant of the Catholic Church!


For those interested, the Pueri Cantorum of St. John XXIII Parish offers opportunities for children ages 8 and up to sing at select High Masses during Advent/Christmas and Lent/Easter, and at select Saturday morning Low Masses. In addition, singers in grades 9-12 who show continued aptitude have the opportunity to be Schola Apprentices, singing with the Adult Schola for select rehearsals and Masses. No audition is necessary, but the ability to sing tunefully is preferred. The choir rehearses on Saturday mornings from 10-11 a.m. at St. Boniface Church in the Northside. Rehearsals will provide free instruction in sight singing, part singing, Gregorian chant, Latin pronunciation, and child vocal technique. For more information, or to register, please contact conductor Mrs. Sharon Burchill at music@stjohnxxiiiparish.org.

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