St. Jane Frances de Chantal Parish maintains an active Parish Choir, whose repertoire spans a broad spectrum of sacred music. The ensemble consists of approximately 30 volunteer members with a section of paid Staff Singers, who support and enhance the volunteer ensemble, serve as principal cantors, and form the "Chantal Schola." As an additional incentive, the staff singers have first right of refusal for the significant number of parish weddings and funerals.
The Choir sings yearly every Sunday at the 10am Mass (9:10am call) from the Thursday after Labor Day until the Solemnity of Corpus Christi. They also sing for various extra services and para-liturgical events such as Lessons and Carols, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Confirmation Mass, and the Easter Triduum. Weekly rehearsals are held every Thursday, 7:30–9:30 p.m. in the church, with additional rehearsals announced at the Director's discretion.
The position is available beginning September 2026. Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply by emailing a letter of interest and resume to Dr. Giuliano Grisi, Director of Music and Liturgy, at
Qualifications:
- Excellent sight-singing and quick learning skills
- A strong, clear vocal tone
- Exceptional intonation
- Ability to lead sectional rehearsals
- Understanding of Catholic principles
- Ability to blend vowels and vocal color
- The ability to adapt to various styles and epochs of music (i.e. "straight tone")
- Familiarity with plainchant, polyphony, and Latin diction
- Leadership skills with pastoral sensitivity
- Independence in their voice parts, relying on no one else to sing their line
- Ability to vocally perform successfully in choir, small ensembles, or as soloists
Staff Singers are also expected to vocally demonstrate for the choir, within a small group, or as a soloist; to learn notes before rehearsals and arrive punctually, completely prepared for the schedule of music; and to maintain a professional attitude and demeanor, with professionalism in behavior and dress, respect, and reverence in church and for the sacred liturgy. They should be willing to informally advise or coach volunteer section members, and to inform the director of expected absences or lateness and secure substitutes as needed.
Above all, Staff Singers of St. Jane's cherish their roles, giving them due dignity, and concern themselves with excellence, beauty, and gracing those around them with a thirst for life and truth, experienced through the gift that brings them to lead and inspire.