Originally published in Denver Catholic

For 25 years, Rick Wheeler, an operatically trained vocalist who now directs the choir at Immaculate Conception Cathedral Basilica, has been quietly nurturing a dream: to establish a liturgical choir that specializes in Renaissance polyphony.

Now that dream is reality with the recent establishment of Gaudium Verum, Latin for "joy of truth."

"The whole idea of polyphony is it can raise the soul and mind to God without being artistically distracting," said Wheeler. "That's an aspect of polyphony I've always respected."

Wheeler said he is still auditioning talented chamber-music vocalists for the choir. He also welcomes invitations from pastors who would like to hire the choir for special Masses, or from laypeople for weddings, or from the archdiocese for special liturgies.

"This is about prayerful representation of the most beautiful music written for the Church," Wheeler said, noting that the Second Vatican Council said Gregorian chant should have first place in the Mass, which remains the directive in the 2011 General Instruction for the Roman Missal.

"Pope Francis just said all churches should have some rooting in Gregorian chant," Wheeler said referring to the pontiff's Sept. 28 address to the Italian St. Cecelia Association. "It's the music of the Mass."

Wheeler emphasized that Gaudium Verum is not just for Latin Mass devotees.

"One of the big goals of Gaudium Verum is to show how this music fits the Novus Ordo Missae," Wheeler said, referring to the new order of the Mass promulgated by St. Paul VI in 1969. "If you've never heard polyphony, it's an experience and a half to be surrounded by this sound that feels like it's there, but not there. It has this ethereal character.

"There are professional groups across the world who are doing polyphonic Masses. They are showing how it's an integral part of the liturgical service. It's not new, but it's new to Denver."

For More Information
Call 303-868-0785 or email info@gaudiumverum.com