The Recovering Choir Director

Peace, Aris.

Interesting series, thanks. On this post, I would take a few exceptions to Mr Hume’s thesis.

First, pastors, must know a heck of a lot more than just Pius X on sacred music. A general familiarity with all the liturgical documents of the past century, especially Sacrosanctum Concilium, would be a more adequate curriculum. And obviously, any full-time hire should have a command of the whole body of teaching on music, including what comes from the USCCB and the local bishop.

And while I realize that some small parishes cannot afford both, the ideal is to separate the functions of accompanist and conductor into two separate positions. A parish certainly needs a competent organist (if they own an organ), and while I’m aware that many fine musicians can conduct with head waves and nods from the console, it is not an ideal situation musically for a skilled choir to become accustomed to such leadership. If an organist is relegated to train and conduct a choir, he or she should be able to have a skilled singing voice as well, not to mention a background in vocal pedagogy. I think it insufficient to resort to “tricks” for vocal training but rely over-much on organ performance.

I’ve worked many years in the Church as a full-time Director of Music. I studied the classical guitar rather than the organ, and have found myself rather “handicapped” at trying to get back into church music work after a two-year haitus. I have surmised the reason to be that I do not play the organ, and that most Catholic churches want an “Organist/ Director.”

I have a very commanding presence and strong, trained tenor voice. Ihave an M.A. degree and feel competent to handle any director appointment in any parish. I have applied nationally and have come up empty handed after months of applying.

I feel I do not have the time to study and learn the organ proficiently. Is there a church out there willing to hire an experienced, professional musician who doesn’t play the organ? I must admit this predominance placed on organ skills as the sine qua non for a director of music leaves one such as myself out of pocket and out of a church music job.

I don’t want this post to be seen as a “gripe session”. I know I am very capable as a Director of Music with my current skills, talents, and experience. Even if I was proficient in the organ, I would want someone else to play it so I could direct the choir(s). I think it can be agreed upon that nods of the head from behind the console leave much to be desired for the full extent of good direction.

Any thouhts would be welcomed. May you all grow in your ministry as you serve God’s people.

Blessings, Mark