Sing a New Song: New director invites singers from all parishes to join Archdiocesan Choir

At left, Dan Girardot, D.Min., conducts the Archdiocesan Choir and the Co-Cathedral Choir during a recent Liturgy at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Houston. Under Girardot’s direction as associate director of music for the Archdiocesan Office of Worship, the Archdiocesan choir is welcoming new voices. (Photo by James Ramos/Herald)HOUSTON — The Archdiocesan Choir is preparing for a new season of liturgical music under the leadership of its new director, Dan Girardot, D.Min. With a wealth of experience as a conductor, liturgist and pastoral musician, Girardot is inviting choir members from all parishes to consider joining the chorus of over 60 voices. 

Girardot, who previously served as associate director for Liturgical Formation in the Office of Worship, brings decades of music ministry experience, including 25 years directing the Austin’s diocesan choir. He holds degrees in music and Liturgy, as well as a doctorate in ministry. “We’re not just making music — we’re building a spiritual community,” he said.

Interested singers are asked to sign up for a voice check — a brief and informal meeting that includes a conversation and a simple vocal assessment, which Girardot prefers over “auditions,” because they are more relaxed and encouraging. Voice checks will take place on Sunday afternoons, Aug. 3 and 10, at the St. Dominic Chancery. To reserve a time, visit the choir’s website at www.archgh.org/voice-check or call 713-741-8761. Details about what to prepare are provided upon registration.  

“The Archdiocesan Choir (ADC) is a ministry that inspires the faithful and enriches the liturgical life of the Archdiocese,” Girardot said. “Our rehearsals and prayerful ministry bring us together in faith and fellowship as we grow musically and spiritually.”

Choir member Jeffrey Phillips, who also serves as assistant to the director and music librarian, added, “The ADC brings like-minded folks together in the joy of lifting up the Liturgy through music.”

Organist Phyllis Harris noted the group’s welcoming spirit and diversity: “It’s the friendliest and most diverse set of people I know. From newlyweds to long-married couples, naturally talented singers to classically trained vocalists — from small parishes to large ones — we all make music together.” 

Gonzalo Ramos, section leader, cantor and guest conductor, emphasized the significance of the choir’s mission.

“Membership in ADC allows you to contribute to the Church’s most solemn celebrations, such as ordinations, the Chrism Mass and other Liturgies led by our Archbishop at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart.”  

Reflecting on a special moment, Girardot recalled both the installation of Bishop Joe S. Vásquez as bishop of Austin 15 years ago and his installation as Archbishop in Galveston-Houston. Girardot said, “It was a joy to see him again during his installation in Galveston-Houston and hear him say, ‘Hi Dan! Here we go again!’”  

The new Archdiocesan choir season officially begins Aug. 23 with a day of musical preparation for upcoming liturgies and the annual In Memoriam Concert. Rehearsals take place twice a month on Sunday afternoons from 2 to 5 p.m. at the St. Dominic Chancery near the Texas Medical Center. 

This year’s In Memoria concert, set for Nov. 23, will feature selections from the Church’s ancient Requiem tradition in honor of Pope Francis and deceased priests and religious of the Archdiocese.  

Girardot, whose parents were both parish musicians, carries on a family legacy of sacred music. His wife, Ann Marie, and their three children — Michael, Marie and Michelle — have all followed musical paths. Michael is a professional musician, Marie is a singer and Michelle is an opera singer and general manager of community arts programs and the Texas Music Festival at the University of Houston.  

For Girardot, the choir’s mission extends far beyond performance. 

“Our goal is more than beautiful singing,” he said. “We are called to inspire the faithful to a deeper encounter with the mystery of Christ in the Eucharist. So with all the angels and saints, we join the heavenly choirs in the unending hymn of God’s praise!”