Choirs & Sacred Music
The Sacred Music program of Saint Francis de Sales Oratory exists for the glorification of God Almighty and the edification and sanctification of the faithful.
The choir loft and organThe Polyphonic Choir serves as the principal choral ensemble for all feasts and solemnities at the Oratory. Their repertoire encompasses nearly eleven centuries of music, from medieval chant to renaissance polyphony, orchestral Masses of the 18th and 19th century to new choral compositions that are consonant with the so-called Roman School of Sacred Music.
The Ladies’ Schola specializes in both Gregorian chant and repertoire written for women’s choir. The schola sings for Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament on Thursday evenings (6:30pm) and occasionally on Sunday mornings. (10am)
“Gregorian Chant has always been regarded as the supreme model for sacred music...” (Pope St. Pius X, Tra le Solecitudini, 1903). The Gentlemen’s Schola of the Oratory sings the great oeuvre of Gregorian Chant propers at all feasts and solemnities of the ecclesiastical year.
The Oratory is committed to an authentic Catholic formation of the faithful, both adults and children. The Saint Nicholas Choir affords a unique opportunity for the children of the Oratory to study the rich heritage of the Faith through sacred music. Choristers are taught the fundamentals of musicianship, vocal technique, and basic music theory. The Saint Nicholas Choir sings once a month at the Solemn High Mass. (Sundays 10am)
If you are interested in joining one of the choirs, please contact Mr. Nick Botkins to discuss the possibilities. Reach him by phone at 314-771-3100 or via email at nbotkins@institute-christ-king.org.
Weekly Rehearsal Schedule
Monday
7:30pm Gentlemen’s Schola
Tuesday
7:30 – 9:15pm Polyphonic Choir
Wednesday
2:00 – 3:00pm Saint Nicholas Choir
Thursday
5:15pm – 6:30pm Ladies’ Schola
Saturday
10:30 – 11:30am Saint Nicholas Choir
Sunday
9:00am Gentlemen’s Schola
9:15am Polyphonic Choir
9:30am Saint Nicholas Choir (once monthly)