What is the AOD Chorus?
The Archdiocesan Chorus of Detroit is a 40-voice SATB choir that serves as the resident vocal ensemble of the Archbishop and the Archdiocese of Detroit. Attracting members ages 17 to 80 from the Toledo area to "the thumb", the Chorus provides music for the major diocesan Masses at the Cathedral, including the Chrism Mass, ordinations of priests and deacons, consecration of bishops, and major priest and bishop funerals. The Chorus is a nucleus of sacred vocal activity in Detroit, providing education and enrichment for advanced parish choir singers and parish music directors. Through innovative liturgical and concert programming, the AOD Chorus preserves and celebrates the Church's great heritage of sacred music and encourages new compositions in the organic tradition.
So you're going to Rome?
Yes! In the spring of 2014, we began preparing a chorus pilgrimage to Rome. In the process, the travel company director suggested that the Chorus submit a recording to him to see what opportunities could be found for singing at Mass in the Roman churches. In March, the AOD Chorus was offered the opportunity to sing with the Sistine Chapel Choir for Pope Francis' Epiphany Mass at St. Peter's Basilica!
Why are you raising money?
Our choir is a tightly-knit musical team that consistently rehearses, performs, prays, and plays together. We sound and look our best when all of our members are present. To get the entire choir to Rome, we need to provide scholarship assistance to some singers. The Chorus includes a number of college students and professional musicians whose incomes aren't sufficient to cover the trip expenses. Your donation will help the entire AOD Chorus get to St. Peter's, ensuring that Pope Francis hears our choir at its best!
Risks & Challenges
The AOD Chorus is auditioned annually to make sure that choir has a balanced sound and a balanced number of singers in each section. If we are unable to bring the entire choir, our balance and sound quality will suffer. Further, insufficient funds would force the directors to make difficult choices about whom to fund.
Other Ways You Can Help
*Share this campaign on social media.
*Attend our June 13 banquet.
*Attend a fundraising concert.
*Donate an item to our silent auction at our June 13 banquet.
*Visit aod.org/chorus and learn more about the Chorus and the pilgrimage.
