Music In The Liturgy
Liturgical Music Styles
Music Mass Schedule
The liturgical music program is designed to offer a variety of musical prayer forms to the community gathered for worship at Queen of All Saints Basilica. The choice of music ranges in style from Gregorian Chant to contemporary hymns and songs, from traditional choral works to music in a contemporary, popular style.
In an effort to accommodate a broad range of interests, and at the same time provide music that enriches the collective worship experience we offer particular styles of music and accompaniment at specific Mass times.
During the summer, musical accompaniment and leadership is provided by organ and cantor. However, during our regular choral ‘season’, which is between the months of September and June, we do our best to adhere to the following outline of styles:
Sunday 11:00 a.m. – Traditional.
Music is chosen from the traditional repertory of hymns and choral music from Gregorian Chant to classic contemporary pieces. Musical leadership is provided by the Basilica Choir, cantor and organ. Choral repertory focuses on the large-scale choral works of the Great Masters, as well as smaller-scale motets from all musical eras.
Saturday 5:00 p.m. (Vigil Mass) and 9:30 a.m. Sunday Morning Mass – Contemporary.
Music is selected from the contemporary, popular repertory, including Spirituals, Sacred Contemporary hymns and songs, and music in the Contemporary Christian idiom. Music is led by the Basilica Contemporary Ensemble.
Sunday 8:00 a.m. – Traditional.
Traditional hymnody led by organ and cantor.
Sunday 12:30 p.m. – Traditional and Contemporary Styles.
Over the course of the year, an alternation of styles will be offered, drawn from those provided at the 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Masses.