Welcome, Marianne Lara, our new Music Director!
Marianne was born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, the eldest of seven children. It was obvious from very early on that Marianne's great love was music. While still in grade school, she took piano, voice and violin lessons. After eighth grade, she joined the School Sisters of Saint Francis where she served for twenty-five years as a grade school music teacher, and Liturgical Music Director. It was as a SSSF that Marianne received her BA Degree from Alverno College and a MA from the University of Iowa. It was evident from childhood that MUSIC was Marianne's "happy place!" Whether she is playing the piano, violin or organ or teaching piano, or directing a Children's or Adult Choir, you will see a smile on her face. Marianne considers it a privilege to be able to unite prayer and music into "sung prayer" as we all come together to worship the Lord. Marianne and her husband Lon live in Waterford, and for the past ten years had to travel 40 minutes to get to her former parish. She was thrilled to learn of the opportunity at St. Thomas and St. Clare and so happy when offered the position. Marianne is looking forward to being a part of the Wind and Water faith community where, together as God's people, we can JOYFULLY sing: my God, "HOW GREAT THOU ART!" Marianne will begin on May 1, 2024.
Music (Choirs, Cantors, Instrumentalists, Special Music)
Music is an essential part of each worship service at St. Clare and St. Thomas. Our musicians sing a variety of musical styles, including chants, motets, traditional church anthems, and contemporary music. And we offer many opportunities for Parishioners to share their musical talents with us. Becoming a part of the Music Ministry is a great way to deepen your faith.
Cantors
If you love to sing and can move others to prayer and worship, we always welcome new talent.
Adult Choir
The choir mainly ministers at 9:30 AM Sunday Mass at St. Clare and 11:15 AM Sunday Mass at St. Thomas and at all major parish celebrations from September through May. Rehearsals are once during the week and a short 30 minute rehearsal on Sunday morning just before Mass. This ministry is open to parishioners of high school age and above.
Instrumentalists
Can you play an instrument or have you always wanted to use your instrument to praise the Lord? We're always looking for instrumentalists to contribute to our music ministry.
Special Music
If you are interested in arranging special music for a wedding, baptism, funeral, or other worship celebration, please contact our music director.
If you have questions regarding our music ministry, please contact either parish office.