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Name:
John Ligda
Residence:
Chicago, Illinois
Graduation Year:
2004
Major:
Music
Minor:
Communication
Why did you choose SJC?
I chose Saint Joseph's College because of its size, proximity, and highly acclaimed program in Church Music and Liturgy. What enticed me most was my ability to begin my major the very first day I began my academic career. In addition to its fine Music program, SJC allowed me the opportunity to use my skills and apply what I was learning in the classroom to my campus activities. SJC's location between two major cities enabled me to spend some weekends off campus working at churches where I gained real world experience in my field.As a student, what were you involved in?
I was the College chapel organist and Director of Music, responsible for providing music for weekend liturgies, feast day Masses, and solemnities. I organized ensembles comprised of students, faculty, and staff. I also played piano and organ as well as directed all liturgies. During my tenure, we held concerts at the Rensselaer Care Center, inaugurated Palm Sunday choral concerts at the College, and began a monthly Taize ecumenical prayer service among the College and area churches.I was the principle accompanist for the College choirs, member of the College bands, and drum major for the marching band. I was a member of the Alpha Lambda Delta National Academic Honor Society, a Senator and Treasurer for the Student Association, and Vice-President of the College Republicans.
What are you doing now?
I am the Principal Organist and Director of Music for the Roman Catholic Parish of Saint Joseph in Homewood, Illinois. I am responsible for music at five weekend liturgies, oversee six major ensembles, and coordinate nearly one hundred volunteer musicians for a parish of over 2,300 families. In addition to weekend Mass, I direct music for weddings and assist grieving families in planning and executing funerals.In addition to my full-time job, I am pursuing a Master of Arts degree in Music through the College's Church Music and Liturgy Program. I am scheduled to graduate in August 2007 with a degree emphasis in conducting. I plan on continuing my education and work towards a terminal degree after completing my master's degree at SJC.
How did SJC prepare you for the "real world"?
SJC provided me with the materials I needed to be successful in finding the right job soon after graduating. The Core Program, with its emphasis on writing and communication, helped me to be articulate and expressive, not only in writing and speaking, but in communicating through music, as well. In addition, SJC's small class sizes provided ample opportunity for more personal, one-on-one instruction with my music professors, especially during studio lessons. This attention has had a positive and significant impact on my ability to successfully pursue my dreams and achieves my goals.
