Music
Holy Advent Welcomes Daniel Shapiro as Director of Music
The Music Committee, comprised of Charles Stannard, Christine Comiskey, Donna Gagné, John Wagner and the Rev. Martha Rogers, chose Daniel unanimously and highly recommend him to our congregation. He comes to us with exceptional skills as a choir director and organist. We know you will delight in his presence among us. Daniel begins Monday Sept 9, 2024, as our new Music Director and begins playing in worship on Sept 22nd.
A little bit about Daniel...
Before we start working together, please tell us a little about where you grew up, your siblings, your family, etc.
I grew up in Avon, CT, which is near Hartford. My mother is local and I have one sister who lives in Massachusetts with my two nephews. I also have extended family throughout New England and elsewhere in the country.
Will you share a little about your hobbies and interests with us?
Beyond my musical activities, I like reading, walking/hiking, gaming, and playing cards and board games.
What do you do when you are not at Holy Advent?
When I am not at Holy Advent, I am teaching piano lessons at Neighborhood Music School in Guilford or working on my dissertation through Brandeis University. Regarding the latter, my doctoral work is in the field of musicology with a specific focus on the solo Lieder of the Austrian-American composer Karl Weigl.
What are you most looking forward to in your time with Holy Advent?
I would say that I am most looking forward to having the opportunity to help build a vibrant and engaging music ministry that will be able to further enrich the religious life at Holy Advent. To that end, I invite anyone from this community and beyond who is interested in singing to please consider joining the choir. There is a place for you here wherever you are on your musical journey!
It is with deep gratitude that we thank Charles Stannard, Music Director Emeritus, for his marvelous gifts of music during our interim period. Not only did Charles provide us with weekly music, but he has once again proven his great talent in reorganizing, and providing, the Holy Advent choir! Charles, you are a walking miracle among us!
Our Choir
COVID conditions caused our choir into hiatus. It is one made made up entirely of volunteer singers of any and all ages. New singers are always welcome, including singers from outside our parish. There are no formal auditions—all that is required is a love of music and a willingness to commit 2 hours per week. If you are interested in helping us start up the choir again, simply come to one of our rehearsals or contact the Parish office, 860-669-2232.
Holy Advent Music Series
In past years, Holy Advent Music Series was administered by Holy Advent's Music Committee and offered 3 - 4 music programs throughout the year, which included:
- A Lenten Tenebrae service of readings and music appropriate for Holy Week
- An instrumental Offering such as Jazz, Big Band or the like
- Holy Advent's "A Capella Sing Off", featuring local college a capella groups
- A Vocal Offering such as Classical or Broadway
- The traditional Festival of Lessons and Carols, which includes readings and music appropriate for Christmas
