St. Thomas More Cathedral Concerts and Music Ministries

Arlington, Virginia
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The Cathedral of St. Thomas More
Music Ministries
 
Praying Twice through Sacred Music at the Cathedral
 
 
As the mother church of the Diocese of Arlington, The Cathedral of St. Thomas More is filled with wonderful choral and instrumental music throughout the liturgical calendar, from regular services, weddings and funerals to Diocesan events such as the Rite of Election, Confirmations, Deaconate and Priesthood Ordinations. 
 
The various musical ensembles of The Cathedral of St. Thomas More provide opportunities for talented professional and volunteer musicians to apply their talents to the glory and praise of God.  These talents are enhanced by the acoustical wonder of the Cathedral Church, which is renowned far and wide in the musical community for its resonance and clarity. These ensembles include:  the Cathedral Choir, the Youth Choir, and the Handbell Choir, supported by the Cathedral Brass and String Ensenbles. To learn more about our choirs and ensembles, contact us.
 
"The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater than that of any other art. The main reason for this pre-eminence is that, as sacred song united to the words, it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn liturgy." Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Article 112
 
 
 
About the Great Organ
 
The Cathedral of St.Thomas More features one of the largest pipe organs in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
 
The present organ was originally built in 1961 by M.P. Moeller as a 3 manual instrument with 28 ranks of pipes. It was rebuilt and augmented in 1980 by Robert Wyant, retaining 3 manuals, but with electro-magnetic action and 53 ranks of pipes, including two sets of En Chamade reeds.
 
"In the Latin Church the pipe organ is to be held in high esteem for it is the traditional musical instrument which adds a wonderful splendor to the Church's ceremonies and powerfully lifts up man's mind to God and to higher things." - Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Article 120