Academy of Sacred Music

01/28/2026

The Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament is pleased to welcome the Raystown Wind Orchestra for a Concert on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.

Admission is free, and a free-will offering will be accepted.

Founded in 2013 by Dr. James Latten, Professor of Music at Juniata College, the Raystown Wind Orchestra is comprised of advanced adult, collegiate, and high school musicians from the Raystown Lake region, Altoona, and State College areas.

The featured work on the program will be the world premiere of Gaudi by composer Joshua Idio. Inspired by the life, faith, and artistic legacy of Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí (1852–1926), this large-scale work for band is presented in four connected movements—mystery, growth, struggle, and legacy—and reflects themes of devotion, humility, and inspiration.

Also featured will be the Concerto for Marimba by James Basta, with soloist Michael Thomas of York, PA. Mr. Thomas is co-principal percussionist with the Hanover Symphony Orchestra and is an active performer and educator throughout Pennsylvania.

Additional selections on the program include Steven Bryant’s Dusk and Sir Malcolm Arnold’s Four Scottish Dances, conducted by Assistant Conductor Dr. Sandra Lee, as well as Vincent Persichetti’s Serenade No. 1, conducted by Dr. Latten.

12/17/2025

The Academy of Sacred Music Messiah Sing Along is this Friday, December 19, at 7:00 at the Hollidaysburg Church of the Brethren. (1028 Penn Street in Hollidaysburg). All are welcome to attend and sing along or just listen. Bring your score or borrow one from us. With 4 soloists, a string quintet, 2 trumpets and organ accompaniment, you don’t want to miss this performance. Admission is free, but a free will offering will be collected.

12/01/2025

Once again this year, the Academy of Sacred Music will present a Messiah Sing Along. This event will be held at 7:00 PM on Friday, December 19, at the Church of the Brethren in Hollidaysburg, PA, with Robert Long, conductor and Asa Carns, organist. You are encouraged to bring a copy of the Messiah score to sing along or you may borrow a copy from us that evening.
Along with audience participation, soloists include Julie Hanlon, Arlene Huth, Thomas Delahoy and James White. There is no admission charge, but a free will offering will be collected.
All are welcome to attend and sing along or just listen.

09/28/2025

PRAYER FOR PRIESTS-Gracious and loving God, we thank you for the gift of our priests. Through them, we experience your presence in the sacraments. Help our priests to be strong in their vocation.
Set their souls on fire with love for your people. Grant them the wisdom, understanding, and strength they need to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Inspire them with the vision of your Kingdom. Give them the words they need to spread the Gospel.
Allow them to experience joy in their ministry. Help them to become instruments of your divine grace. We ask this through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns as our Eternal Priest. Amen.

06/28/2025

An emotionally and spiritually evening at the 2025 Choral Institute Concert tonight. We give thanks for our singers, accompanists, readers and dancers for their time and talents, and appreciate all who came out to support our mission!

05/01/2025

Please click on the image for details about our 2025 Choral Institute! Maestro Long is refining the repertoire - stay tuned! Singers, church musicians and music directors of all skill levels are welcome to participate.

12/14/2024

12/07/2024

Thank you to all who joined us for our annual Messiah Sing!