Holy Rosary Choir

Mission

To praise God and enhance worship in our parish community.

Vision

To enable the congregations appreciate and enjoy the wonderful rich tradition of polyphonic choral music which dates back to monastic times, but which was first documented about the 11^th century. The Holy Rosary Choir cherishes and wishes to share with all the congregations this gift, first bestowed on us by our founding Musical Director Dom Brendan Kelly in 1982.

Introduction / History

We are a four part choir (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) of approximately 40 members. For 30 years we sang the Saturday Vigil Mass from start of September to end-May. Recently, because of reduction in the number of Masses, we sing every second Saturday, plus the major annual events:

• Bethany Mass on the first Saturday of November
• The Vigil Mass on Christmas Eve
• Easter Week ceremonies, particularly notable for the unaccompanied (a capella) singing of the great renaissance composers Palestrina, Victoria etc.
• Easter Saturday Vigil Mass
• The annual June mass in Redford Cemetery

Click here to read a History of our choir.

Click here to view pictures of our 30th anniversary celebration on 28th April 2012

Membership

Many have been members for the 30 years of the choir’s existence, but new members are always welcome. A short audition with our Musical Director  will establish to which part or line you are best suited, and the choir would very much welcome new members.

Time commitment

The choir practises every Saturday from early September to late May. On the alternating Saturdays when we are singing the Vigil Mass, the practice is from 5pm to 5:45pm, with a short break before the Mass. On the alternating Saturdays, the practice is from 10:30 to 12:00, allowing time to rehearse of new pieces, preparation for major performances etc.

Social events

The choir, although primarily a vehicle of worship, also has an active social committee which organises an annual party after the Christmas Carol Festival, to which partners are invited. The Choir has travelled extensively, visiting and singing in Wuerzburg, Germany, Krakow, Poland, and Fatima, Portugal and within Ireland, to Knock and Galway. Non-performing visits, but attending major performances, have been made to Belfast and Wexford. These trips, again accompanied by partners, have been the occasion of making new friendships and showcasing our enthusiasm for serious church choral music.

Contacts

If you are interested in joining or merely want more details, please contact us:

Chairperson: Tony Keegan 087 244 2818

Musical Director/Organist: Louise O’Sullivan

Listen to Holy Rosary Choir