Based at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral, the Schola Cantorum Detroitensis (SCD) is an ensemble of vocal and choral professionals advancing the quality of sacred song in the Archdiocese of Detroit through ministry, performance, and education.
(SCD members sing “Tu es Petrus” by Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina in the apse of the cathedral)
What does the SCD do?
For the diocesan music program:
- Staff singers for the Cathedral Chorale and Archdiocesan Chorus
- The official cantors of the cathedral
- Performs as an ensemble for liturgies and concerts
- Soloists for masterworks
- Traveling cantors or small ensemble for Archbishop’s stational liturgies, most especially at Sacred Heart Seminary
For parishes:
- Choir support (ringers) for major parish liturgies (feast days, bishop visits)
- Performs as stand-alone ensemble for major parish liturgies (feast days, bishop visits)
- Soloists for masterworks
- Choir and cantor masterclasses
- Private voice instruction/cantor coaching
- Private conducting coaching
(SCD members sing the Universal Prayer for the national meeting of the FDLC. Setting by Ray East, ©1987, GIA Publications, Inc.)
Who is in the Schola Cantorum Detroitensis?
The SCD is a consortium of vocal music professionals with advanced education in a variety of specialties, including choral conducting, diction, and Gregorian chant. SCD members have fluency in Spanish, Italian, German, and other languages. Among SCD members are experienced college lecturers, vocal teachers, renowned cantors, and frequent performers on theatre and opera stages. Musical fluency includes a variety of styles, including Gregorian chant, modern Catholic ritual music, Gospel music, and classical literature of all eras. The SCD is under the direction of cathedral music director Joe Balistreri.
For more information on SCD members, click here.
Laetetur Cor (Introit, 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time), sung by a trio of SCD men
How do I engage with the Schola Cantorum Detroitensis?
Music directors and pastors who would like to engage the SCD for liturgies, concerts, coaching, or lessons should contact music director Joe Balistreri for particular arrangements.
Immitet angelus (Offertory, 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time), sung by a trio of SCD women