Music

The historic Church of St. Michael in Old Town has been known as “an acoustical jewel of Chicago.” It is an exceptional space for music and has been attracting renowned music ensembles aid concert artists such as Manheim Steamroller, Music of the Baroque, David Schrader, Charlie Vernon among others.  Most importantly, the acoustics provide our faith community with beautiful and inspiring liturgies as well as Old Town Organ Vespers and other concerts throughout the year.

Please take a moment to explore St. Michael’s music program. Music is an integral part of the liturgy at St. Michael’s, and we hope that you’ll prayerfully consider being part of it! We look forward to seeing you at one of our liturgies!

The Schola Cantorum
The St. Michael’s Gallery Choir, The Schola Cantorum, sings at the 11:00 a.m. Sunday Mass, and the rehearsals for the Gallery Choir are at 10:00 a.m. in the Organ Gallery.  For information about the 11:00 a.m. Choir, please contact Daniel Stucker at (312) 642-2498, ext. 221, or via email at dstucker@st-mikes.org

Contemporary Choir
The Contemporary Choir sings at the 7:00 p.m. Sunday Evening Mass.  Rehersals are on Sunday afternoons at 5:45 p.m. in the church. Singers and instrumentalists (flute, violin, guitar) are always needed. For more information about this choral group and ensemble, please contact Scott Arkenberg at (773) 206-6785 or scott@st-mikes.org

Cantors
These music leaders of sung prayer proclaim the psalm and help the community to raise its voice in song.  Cantors are vocalists that are advanced in training and many take voice lessons to prepare for their ministry.  Extra rehearsals and training are needed; many times the Gallery Choir choristers serve as Saturday and Sunday cantors as well.

The Music Librarian Ministry
Please contact St. Michael’s Director of Music if interested in providing assistance with cataloging, ordering, and preparation of choral sheet music and hymnals used by the choirs.

St. Michael’s Music Department accepts donations as to enhance the Parish liturgical music, especially for the repair and refurbishment of the historic Kilgen Pipe Organ (1925).  Donations should be directed or made payable to St. Michael in Old Town Church, with a note “Friends of Music.”