Sacred Music
Transforming hearts through the power and beauty of music
The National Shrine is a privileged place in which a person, as a pilgrim here on earth, experiences the loving and saving presence of God. It is here that the pilgrim finds a fruitful space away from daily distractions and can gather thoughts, pray, and acquire the spiritual nourishment to re-embark upon the journey of faith with greater ardor.
The Celebration of the Eucharist is at the heart of the sacramental life of the Shrine, offering pilgrims the possibility of real transformation. The dignity of the Eucharistic celebration is therefore of prime importance, with music being an integral part of the Eucharistic celebration.
Sacred Music at the National Shrine strives to transform hearts and minds through the power and beauty of music in the Roman Catholic Liturgy. It is guided by the belief that inspired liturgy leads to a transformation, deepening and awakening one’s faith.
By praising Him who is ineffably sublime, the faithful progress on their earthly pilgrimage ever closer to the world of the resurrection; for it is “through the praise of God that man ascends to God” (“homo per divinam laudem affect ascendit in Deum.” Summa Theologiæ, II-II, 91; St. Thomas Aquinas). The musicians of the Basilica strive to be agents of such transformation by creating music that is artistic, genuine, authentic, purposeful, and evangelizing.
Journey through a century of sacred music at the National Shrine.