ST. GREGORY'S CHOIR AND CHORISTERS
Music—it’s power to transform our souls, our minds, and literally our bodies can be astounding. Music is a universal language and singing together in a choir not only improves one’s physical and mental health, it also promotes social bonding in ways other group activities can’t. Did you know that singing is particularly beneficial for improving breathing, posture, and muscle tension? Choral singing has also been shown to be effective in pain relief as it releases endorphins into our nervous system. Studies show that music in general can play a role in sustaining a healthy immune system! And regular choral singing can be extremely beneficial in slowing cognitive decline.
Choral singing positively affects our sense of happiness and well-being as it serves as an excellent social network. When making music together, we are connected to one another in an almost supernatural way as we experience the power of creating something much larger than ourselves, larger than our individuality. Singing becomes our connection to others much like the neurons which connect the various parts of our brain.
Choirs serve as a vital support system and cultural necessity for both children and adults. Choral singing allows you to learn new languages even if you’ve never studied any. Imagine singing in Latin or even French! How about Italian! As a choir member, you can learn about world history, languages, and music of other cultures. And you deepen your knowledge of music itself, learning music theory and how to read music written on the page.
As we approach September, I invite anyone who is interested in singing at St. Gregory’s to reach out to me! I’d love to hear what you can do! Perhaps you would be a perfect candidate to join the Choir of St. Gregory’s! Our first rehearsal for the Choir of St. Gregory’s (open to all ages from High School to adult) will be September 11 at 7 PM in the choir room. The Choir of St. Gregory’s rehearses on Thursdays from 7-9 pm and sings for the 10 am Choral Eucharist on Sundays as well as preparing for monthly Evensongs and special service throughout the year.
The Choristers, which is a choir for children in grades 3-8, will begin rehearsals on Thursday, September 11 at 5:45 PM in the Choir room. Children are the future and singing in a choir enriches their lives like nothing else can! You can sign your child up for Choristers by emailing me or simply bring your child to rehearsal on September 11.
Please contact me for more information about auditions, sign-up, or singing in general! I’d love to see you in the choir loft!
Blessings,
Tim Brumfield
Director of Music Ministries, Organist, and Choirmaster