Italian Choir

Choir Director:Wanda Sanguin and Pipe Organ Musician:Carlo Oddone

Our Lady of Grace has a beautiful and rich history rooted in Italian music and worship. The first Italian Choir was founded under the directorship of Mr. Joseph Rino and through the continued growth and demand of the Italian Community, in 1983, the second Italian Choir (known to many as the 9:00am Italian Choir) was officially formed by Father Rino Spada (Pastor at the time) and organist Mr. Carlo Oddone. Through invitation and inspiration, new members joined the choir and as it grew in number, so too did it in form.  Serving as the first Director of the 9:00am Italian Choir, the late Mrs. Celestina Andrenacci enthusiastically lead the choir in many Sunday celebrations for over 15 years.  She was succeeded by Mrs. Wanda Sanguin, who currently leads the choir in performing a repertoire of traditional and contemporary Italian worship songs.

Presently, the Italian Choir is composed of over 20 singers and they are accompanied by the sound of our beautiful pipe organ, played by the choir’s founding organist.  The Italian Choir’s mission is to assist parishioners in prayer through the gift of music and song.  The choir can be heard at the 9:00am Sunday Mass and on most feast days like Christmas and Easter.  In addition, the choir is pleased to provide music and vocals upon request to meet the needs of the Community for weddings and funerals.  While knowledge of music is an advantage, it is the love of singing and one’s genuine commitment that keeps this group’s melody and voices united in harmony.  The ministry is strictly voluntary, but demonstration of commitment to the group is required.  Practice is held weekly, on Wednesday evening at 7:30pm in the Church.  Membership is open to all Italian singers and the choir invites new voices to join as everyone’s talent is welcomed and appreciated.