Substitute Kantor Training: Advanced Course 5/2027

The aim of the course is to provide skills to temporarily serve as an Orthodox cantor in church feasts, Paschal season, and Holy Week divine services. Learning materials include key service books, e.g., musical liturgy, musical vigil, Sing to the Lord III, Excerpts from Great Lent services, Holy and Great Pascha Sunday (musical booklet), Pentecostarion, and Menaion. Preparation for the course involves participating in Holy Week and Paschal season divine services in one's own home parish, and making written observations and questions related to the service rubrics and texts used. During the course, these specific service rubrics will be reviewed and studied, sung and read texts will be explored, and vocalizations and liturgical choir conducting will be reviewed. Participants will form a choir and, during the course, will participate in the monastery's divine services as separately agreed. The course is primarily intended for those who have participated in previous substitute cantor courses. The course does not grant formal qualification as an Orthodox cantor. Course participants are selected based on applications, link to the application form. The application period ends on February 1st, 2027. The course price includes a festive Mother's Day lunch in addition to regular meals. Instructor: M.Th., Musician (UAS Master), Music Pedagogue (UAS Bachelor), dir.cant. Varvara Merras-Häyrynen. The course receives support from the Orthodox Church of Finland. Special price. No other discounts. The language of instruction is Finnish.