Music can heighten the texts and actions of the Mass. We are called to participate in the music through adding our musical skills in various ways, through joining in the singing of the gathered congregation, and through listening to other musicians. Musical roles are many and can include the organist or keyboard person, other instrumentalists, cantors, psalmists, choir members, choir directors, people who choose the music, and overall music coordinators. Each parish configures these people in ways that suit the talents of the parishioners and the needs of the parish.
All are invited to sing the hymns and acclamations. There are no auditions or evaluations. We use whatever vocal gift we have been given and contribute as a full participant in the Mass. Other roles, such as organist or cantor, require certain musical training and knowledge of how music works in the liturgy. These people have “homework” and need to prepare the music for the upcoming Mass.
Liturgy forms us for how we are to act the rest of the week. What are we learning as we participate in or lead music at Mass? We are learning about how to work together for a common purpose. Thinking about how all of the instruments and voices come together in a musical piece is similar to the analogy that we all make up the Body of Christ. Just as each part of the body works together for a fully functioning human being, so too the many parts of the ensemble – guitar, flute, alto, tenor, director, etc. – each have a role, but they come together into a harmonious whole.
We sing in unison which teaches us about unity. We sing in harmony which teaches us about different voices as one. We sing in other languages which promotes diversity. We sing the older chants which helps us value the treasures of the past. We sing new songs because we are open to change and new ideas.
Perhaps we are being called to use our musical gifts in other places, e.g. to bring singing into a nursing home. We are experiencing the beauty of music. Are we called to volunteer to boost appreciation of the Fine Arts in the community? Can we act as a docent or an usher at an event? We thank God for the gift of sound. Might we work to enhance the rights of people who are hard of hearing?
If we feel called to participate as a musician at church, how might that ministry influence our actions and attitudes as we try to be the hands, feet, and voice of Christ in the world?
