Music

Sacred music is music created for the liturgy. It is distinguished from profane music, meaning music that is non-sacred or, according to the word’s Latin roots, “outside the temple.” Profane does not mean bad; it simply describes music that is not set apart and ordered toward the liturgy. Sacred music, by contrast, is music set apart for use in divine worship.

The traditional qualities of sacred music include holiness, goodness of form, and universality. Sacred music must be holy insofar as it is set apart for the liturgy and closely connected with the liturgical action. It must possess goodness of form insofar as it is true art—that is, music of genuine artistic quality. Finally, sacred music is universal insofar as its sacred character can be recognized across cultures while still respecting authentic cultural differences.

These qualities are not always immediately apparent, and judging them well requires education, formation, and expertise.

Just as Christians received and transformed elements of ancient Greek musical theory, modern musical forms are not inherently unsuitable for liturgical use merely because they arose outside the Church.

At Saint Joseph, we draw upon music from the Church’s entire tradition, from Gregorian chant to contemporary music. Our guiding ethos is expressed in a two-part question: Is the music sacred, and is the music good?

As Pope St. Pius X wrote in Tra le sollecitudini:


Thus, when music is genuinely sacred and possesses true artistic quality, it thereby acquires the universality proper to the Church’s worship.

Many people contribute to our parish’s liturgical music, and we would be happy to speak with you about how you might become involved.

The Saint Joseph Choir is our adult choir. It rehearses on most Tuesdays during the academic year, usually from 7:00 to 8:30pm in the nave (near the organ and piano). The choir is open to adults and students in grade nine and above.

Voces Liliae is our children’s choir. It sings approximately one Sunday each month during the academic year and rehearses in the nave near the piano and organ on the preceding Tuesday from 3:25 to 4:35pm. The choir is open to children in grades 4 through 8, whether or not they attend Saint Joseph Catholic School.

Saint Joseph also welcomes experienced instrumentalists who wish to beautify the liturgy by sharing their musical gifts.

For more information about any of these musical ministries or to express your interest in participating, please complete the following form. You may also direct questions to Peter Brown, Director of Music.