Young Tenor Delivers Captivating Rendition of 'Regina Caeli' Chant

Robert Moorman's interpretation of the solemn Mode VI tone showcases his mastery of Gregorian chant traditions.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:03am

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An abstract close-up photograph of a richly textured, golden-hued surface, resembling the illuminated pages of an ancient manuscript, conveying a sense of reverence and timelessness associated with the Catholic liturgical tradition.Moorman's solemn yet expressive rendition of the 'Regina Caeli' chant evokes the timeless beauty and reverence of the Catholic liturgical tradition.Boston Today

A young tenor named Robert Moorman, an undergraduate at the New England Conservatory and staff singer at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston, has gained attention for his captivating interpretation of the 'Regina Caeli' Gregorian chant in the solemn Mode VI tone. Moorman's treatment of the rhombus-shaped neumes, singing them with greater rhythmic energy and expression than the traditional Solesmes method, has been praised for its elegance and beauty.

Why it matters

Moorman's performance highlights a growing interest and appreciation for Gregorian chant traditions, especially among younger generations of Catholics. His training at Saint Gregory the Great High School, where liturgies are predominantly sung, has equipped him with a deep understanding and comfort with these ancient musical forms that are experiencing a revival in the Church.

The details

In his rendition of the 'Regina Caeli' chant, Moorman demonstrates exceptional skill in navigating the repercussions, or repeated notes, as well as his unique approach to the rhombus-shaped neumes. Rather than singing them with the same length as the punctum (single note) as is typical, Moorman shortens their duration by about half, infusing the melody with a more energetic and expressive quality. This unorthodox yet captivating interpretation has been praised for its elegance and beauty.

  • Moorman is currently an undergraduate student at the New England Conservatory in Boston, Massachusetts.
  • He is also a staff singer at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston.

The players

Robert Moorman

A young tenor and undergraduate student at the New England Conservatory in Boston, Massachusetts, who is also a staff singer at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston.

Michael Meraw

Moorman's voice teacher at the New England Conservatory.

Matthew Williams

The music director and schola master at Saint Gregory the Great High School in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where Moorman attended and received his early training in Gregorian chant.

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What they’re saying

“Our liturgical and spiritual life at the Academy is one of a vigorous and manly charism.”

— Matthew Williams, Music Director and Schola Master, Saint Gregory the Great High School

“Our boys are educated in a way that frees the intellect and engages the imagination in order to help them discover those things that point toward God, Who is the ultimate Truth.”

— Matthew Williams, Music Director and Schola Master, Saint Gregory the Great High School

What’s next

Moorman's captivating performance of the 'Regina Caeli' chant is expected to further raise awareness and appreciation for Gregorian chant traditions, particularly among younger generations of Catholics. His unique interpretation may inspire other young musicians to explore these ancient musical forms and find innovative ways to present them to modern audiences.

The takeaway

Moorman's rendition of the 'Regina Caeli' chant showcases the enduring power and beauty of Gregorian chant, as well as the growing interest and talent among younger Catholics in preserving and reimagining these sacred musical traditions for the 21st century.