The Music Committee of the Diocesan Liturgical Commission is currently accepting applications for the Cecilia Project. The Cecilia Project was developed in response to a growing concern to encourage, recruit, train, and empower qualified people to become pastoral musicians in our parishes and institutions.
The Diocese of Youngstown is pleased to bring back the Cecilia Project! A brochure and letter have been mailed to all parishes with details, or you can download the brochure from the Office of Worship webpage: https://doy.org/ministries/worship/ The age range has been opened on the upper end. Qualified teachers with a lot of experience will be teaching piano, organ, and voice. This is perfect for beginners or those who would like a refresher.
Over the past years, participants have been engaged in various liturgical formation opportunities and received individualized professional music lessons in their area of interest—piano, organ, or vocal training.
Currently, we are looking to begin another group of prospective participants in September. This is a unique opportunity to identify young potential musicians in our parishes and schools and offer them the advantage of furthering their musical education and talent at no cost. The Cecilia Project is open to anyone who is high school-aged or older. The program is rooted in a foundation of liturgical knowledge, accompanied by private lessons with qualified instructors in piano, organ, or voice. The only requirements are respect for liturgy and enthusiasm to learn and further enhance skills.
Brochures have been sent to all parish musicians. For more information, contact Mr. Ralph Holtzhauser, Diocesan Director of Music at rholtzhauser@youngstowndiocese.org.
