For decades, faithful singers and instrumentalists from the Dioceses of Toledo, Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Detroit have come together to provide music for the annual Assumption Novena to Our Lady of Consolation. We are proud to have such talented musicians lift our minds and hearts in praise of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. With nine straight evenings of the novena, each night’s music and musicians is different. The past few years have seen vocal soloists, instrumental soloists, duets, quartets, a men’s chorus, as well as our own Our Lady of Consolation Children’s Choir and Shrine Chorale.
Assumption Choir
The culmination of the Novena is the Vigil Mass of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 14 each year. This Mass takes place in the Shrine Park and is generally attended by over 12,000 parishioners and pilgrims. Each year, a choir forms to lead the faithful in song during this special Mass. This unique experience gives singers, ranging from amateur to professional, the opportunity to sing a wide variety of music with a short-term commitment. Singers in junior high and older are welcome to join. Rehearsals are held the three Sundays prior to the Vigil Mass from 4:00–5:45pm in the Original Shrine Church (next to the Gift Shop). This year’s rehearsals are on July 26, August 2, and August 9. Singers are expected to attend at least two rehearsals.
In 2025, there were 55 singers, five brass players, and a violinist.
Novena Children’s Choir
Begun in 2024, the Novena Children’s Choir leads the faithful in song during one of the nights of the novena. All area children in grades 1 through 8 are invited to join the choir. This year, the Children’s Choir will lead the music at the Basilica & Shrine’s Novena Devotions on Tuesday, August 11 at 8:00 PM. This is a great opportunity for local children to sing beautiful music in a wonderfully acoustic space!
Rehearsals are: Sunday, August 2 and August 9 from 12:30-1:15pm and Wednesday, August 5 from 5:00-5:45 PM. All rehearsals will be in the Original Shrine Church (next to the Gift Shop). All singers must attend at least one rehearsal. Registration is required for the Children’s Choir.