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MUSIC MINISTRY
Singing is one of the primary ways that the assembly of the faithful participates actively in the Liturgy. The people are encouraged “to take part by means of acclamation's, responses, psalms, antiphons and hymns” The musical formation of the assembly must be a continuing concern in order to foster full, active conscious and active participation. (Sing To the Lord: Music in Divine Worship)
Director of Music and Liturgy: Thomas Bozek, tbozek@ihmchurchmd.org
Telephone: 410-668-0097
Immaculate Heart of Mary – Official Statement on David Haas – from the department of Liturgy and Liturgical Music:
In support of and in solidarity with the victims of his abuse, Immaculate Heart of Mary has made an official policy decision to no longer include the use of any music by composer David Haas in our music program. This includes our regular Sunday and Holy Day Liturgies, as well as music for any other occasion such as Weddings and Funerals, other Masses, Liturgical Celebrations or Prayer Services. This policy applies to any music to be used in the Parish, Parish School and Faith Formation Programs. We offer continued prayers and support to all victims in this situation and all victims of abuse.
The Immaculate Heart of Mary Chorale
Composed of male and female voices from high school through mature adult, the choir enhances the music at the 10:00am Mass monthly as well as during Advent, Christmas Eve Carol Service and Mass and the services of Holy Week, Confirmation and other special occasions throughout the church year. During certain special services, outside professional musicians (instrumentalists) are hired as they together with the choir provide special music for important celebrations. Choir rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings in the choir room. Music reading ability and previous choral experience, while helpful is not necessary to join the choir. Having a pleasant singing voice and being able to match pitch are the most important criteria.
Cantors/Psalmists
The cantor is both a singer and leader of congregational song. The cantor also serves as the “Psalmist” or “Cantor of the Psalm” and proclaims the psalm after the first reading and leads the gathered assembly in singing the refrain. Those designated for this ministry should possess “the ability for singing and a facility in correct pronunciation and diction while being able to proclaim the texts with clarity, conviction and sensitivity to the text, the musical setting, and those who are listening.” Cantors are scheduled and rehearse around mutually agreed times with the director/organist.
The Resurrection Choir
“Sacred music has an integral role in the funeral rites, since it can console and uplift mourners while, at the same time uniting the assembly in faith and love. The practice of developing funeral choirs within parish communities should be encouraged. The funeral choir is commonly made up of individuals who tend to be available on weekday mornings and who gather to lend their collective voice in support of the assembly song at the funeral Mass.” (Sing To the Lord, Music in Divine Worship) Here at IHM, we welcome those who may be retired, stay at home parents or have a work schedule conducive to being available during funeral times which are usually at the 9am Mass on weekdays. The choir rehearses periodically several times during the year and also provides musical support for the annual All Souls Day Mass of Remembrance.
Instrumentalists
We welcome individuals who play any instrument to join us as a solo instrumentalist at various liturgies during the year. If you play an instrument, please contact the music office for more information.
Instruments:
Yamaha Conservatory Grand Piano
