Music
We believe that when music is performed to the highest standards of excellence it glorifies God, transcending the earthly and expressing what words alone cannot. That is why it has always been an integral part of our worship and parish life. It is a means of leading one’s self and others closer to God. It is also a marvelous means of outreach to the community. The musical life of the parish is made possible by the generous support of its members and friends. We are blessed by both talent and resources. Here, you will find more information on our musical history, as well as more about our choirs; our current Director, Richard Hoskins and the other musicians; and our church organs, concerts and wedding music.
Our Music
THE CHOIRS
THE CHOIR OF
ST CHRYSOSTOM’S CHURCH
Our principal choral ensemble, this is an auditioned, professional mixed choir of twelve voices which includes some of the finest choral artists in the city of Chicago. With a repertoire spanning five centuries, the choir offers choral leadership nearly every Sunday during the program year, and additionally may be heard at special services such as Ash Wednesday and the Holy Week services, as well as monthly offerings of Choral Evensong.
The Choir currently has an opening for a Baritone/Bass, and is hearing Soprano, Alto, and Tenor auditions for the substitute list for the 2022-23 choral season! Find out more here.
THE ST. CHRYSOSTOM’S SINGERS
The St. Chrysostom’s Singers are the parish Adult Choir. These talented and dedicated parishioners gather approximately once per month to sing at the 10:00 service, usually singing alongside singers of the professional Choir. For more information, or to get involved, please contact Richard Hoskins, Director of Music.
Our Children’s Chorister Program is now beginning its second season! We gather each week for 30 minutes of music, fun, and faith as we explore the ways in which we can use our voices to give praise and glory to God! Our Chorister Program is a great way to give kids a first-class musical education and also help them feel that they ‘belong’ in a worship setting. They’ll also learn about history, culture, mathematics, art, language, and how to be an effective member of a team!
Please click here for more information about the Children’s Chorister Program!
INSTRUMENTS
THE FISK ORGAN
In 2004, our Fisk Organ, Opus 123, arrived from Gloucester, Massacusetts. It was the culmination of a ten-year project to replace our Moeller organ. The pipes were carried into the church by 102 parishioners and friends. The 8’ principal was first played in October and the organ was finished in February, 2005. It was officially dedicated at Morning Prayer on February 25th. Daniel Roth, Organiste Titulaire of St. Sulpice, Paris, played the Dedicatory Recital that afternoon to a standing-room-only audience. The Fisk is now heard weekly at the principal services of the parish and in concerts.
The Fisk has direct mechanical action except for certain large bass pipes.
The casework is free- standing in two cases at the east end of the church. The case is in African mahogany and the console in quarter-sawn white oak. The front pipes are polished, hammered lead.
The keydesk has 58 keys CC-a3, naturals of cowbone, sharps of ebony. The pedalboard has 30 keys CC-11.
The Fisk has combination action with solid state logic and multi-level combination action. The Stop action is electrically-controlled solenoids. It has a tremulant, wind stabilizer and balanced swell pedal.
THE CRANE MEMORIAL CARILLON
Installed in 1927, the Richard Teller Crane Memorial Carillon is one of the oldest in the country and the second oldest in the Midwest. The 43 bells were cast and installed by the bell foundry Gillett and Johnston of England. Gillett and Johnston bells are known for their well-tuned, full tone, and these bells are no exception.
Richard T. Crane, Jr. gave the carillon to St. Chrysostom’s in memory of his father, a Chicago industrial magnate whose eponymous company manufactured metal goods for plumbing and central heating systems. The global company still thrives today as a manufacturer of diverse industrial products.
A carillon consists of tuned bells connected to an oversized keyboard from which the player rings the bells with fists and feet. Each baton at the keyboard is connected to a single clapper, which strikes the bell on the inside. With both fists and feet in action, performers can play a large range of repertoire from hymns to classical arrangements to Christmas carols. This basic instrument mechanism dates from the early 16th century in Belgium and the Netherlands.
The Crane Memorial Carillon is played by Richard Hoskins and Jim Fackenthal before and after the Sunday 10 a.m. service, at weddings, at funerals, and in recital.
