What is a Cantor?
A cantor is a skilled vocalist who leads the assembly in liturgical music. The cantor facilitates congregational singing and helps to make the liturgy more engaging and prayerful. The cantor is not a soloist, but sings with and for the assembly, providing encouragement for full, active, conscious participation.
What Do Cantors Do?
- Lead Congregational Singing – Cantors start hymns, lead the assembly in singing the psalms, and lead the singing of the Mass parts.
- Encourage Participation – Cantors encourage and support the assembly in singing, creating an environment that makes it easier for the assembly to join in.
- Exhibit Vocal and Musical Skills – Cantors should have a strong, clear voice, be comfortable leading singing, and have a good understanding of liturgical music.
- Model Spiritual Preparation – The cantor should be familiar with the readings and the context of the psalm, preparing their hearts and minds for the liturgy.
- Enhance the Liturgy – By leading the assembly in song, the cantor connects the sung liturgy and the Word of God
What Are the Qualifications of a Cantor?
- Vocal Ability – A cantor should have a strong, clear voice that can be heard by the congregation.
- Musical Training – Formal vocal training and music education is strongly recommended. This training will be beneficial in the leading of the assembly in song.
- Musical Literacy – Proficiency in music reading and sight-singing though not required, is helpful in the preparation of music.
Contact Craig M. Swatt for more information about becoming a cantor.
