Vocal Music

If you wish to have a soloist, there is a vast quantity of appropriate music. Keep in mind that this is a solemn occasion and that the music must be of a scriptural nature. Popular love songs are entirely out of place in the Roman Catholic Church. If popular music is important to you, may I suggest that you make it a focal point of your reception. It must also be noted that the “Our Father” is to be spoken during a Roman Catholic or Nuptial Mass. Because this moment may be the only one that all Christians will be able to pray for the couple together, no one should be left out. If a sung version of this prayer is important to you, it may be used as a selection during the prelude music, perhaps immediately before the mothers are seated.

There are several appropriate times for vocal selections. Some of these are: before the ceremony; during the preparation of gifts; and during the receiving of Communion. It is also appropriate to have the psalm sung rather than read, as long as the soloist is a cantor capable of inviting the congregation to participate in the singing of the refrain. By-the-way, this is an excellent way to involve the assembly. The Gospel Acclamation may also be sung (the Celtic Alleluia has some excellent verses for nuptial ceremonies). Keep in mind that your soloist does not have to sing at every available moment, however!

Throughout the ceremony, texts of vocal solos must be scriptural or taken from a traditional Roman Catholic prayer, or in the form of a contemporary prayer. The bottom line: it must inspire worship.

In choosing a soloist or other musicians, you will want to obtain people who are well-trained. Don’t feel obligated to ask a friend or relative for sentimental reasons. We work with numerous well-trained singers in the area and will be happy to suggest someone for you. It is important that the music for your wedding be done well. This is not an area to “cut corners!”

Also, remember that it is not the responsibility of the organist to teach music to your soloist; both soloist and vocal selections should be chosen carefully so that the rehearsal time can be kept to a reasonable length.

Musical “trax” tapes are not appropriate in Catholic worship, therefore they cannot be used to accompany your soloist. Furthermore, St. Rita Church does not have the equipment to facilitate the playing of recorded music of any kind.

There are several commercial recordings available to help you in your selections. For vocal music, may we suggest these two collections:

When Love Is Found, by Jeanne Cotter and David Haas; CD (G-3745-CD) available for $15.96 through GIA Publications. Call 1-800-GIA-1358 or contact them through their web-site, www.giamusic.com

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