CALL FOR SINGERS

The Cathedral of Saint Paul/National Shrine of the Apostle Paul, in St. Paul, Minnesota is currently accepting applications for Section Leader positions in its semi-professional Cathedral Choir. Section Leaders form the Schola Cantorum¸ which while supporting the Cathedral Choir, is able to function alone. Additionally, the Cathedral Choir supports the Archdiocesan Choir for certain principal feasts of the year. The Cathedral Choir sings on Sundays at the 10:00 a.m. Mass (NOVUS ORDO) during the academic year, generally concluding its season on the celebration of the solemnity of Corpus Christi (in 2012, 10 JUNE.) There are additional liturgies at Christmas, during the Easter Triduum (Holy Week), and other times as announced. Rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings from 6:30-9:30. Sunday morning call time is 9:00. Occasional extra rehearsals may be called. A full schedule is provided at the beginning of the season.

The Cathedral Choir is a semi-professional ensemble that sings sacred music for the Roman Catholic liturgy, specializing in Gregorian Chant and Renaissance polyphony. The Cathedral serves as the seat of the Archbishop, is the Mother Church of the archdiocese, and serves as a model in liturgy and music.

Some requirements of the position include:

• Leadership skills with pastoral sensitivity
• Professionalism, respect, and reverence
• Exceptional sight-singing and quick learning skills
• Strong vocal technique and musical expression
• Exceptional intonation
• Ability to blend vowels and color
• Ability to adapt in outermost areas of range
• Ability to sing in English and Latin, as well as other languages, as necessary
• Knowledge of IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet)
• Understanding and ability to interpret various stylistic/historical performance practices
• Independence of voice-part
• Ability to vocally demonstrate for choir, within small group or as solo
• Notes learned before rehearsals
• Sonic leadership of section
• Ability to climb stairs, walk in procession, hold folders and hymnals for long periods

Applicants are asked to contact Robert Ridgell, Director of Music at rridgell@cathedralsaintpaul.org
Include Curriculum vitae, and SATB voice part. No phone calls, please.

Deadline for applications is 15 July 2011.