Philadelphia Papal Choir rehearses for pope performance

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Music will be an important part of the pope's visit to Philadelphia, and on Monday night they held the first rehearsal of the Philadelphia Papal Choir.

The sound of music filled the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.

The newly formed Philadelphia Papal Choir will sing at the Sunday Mass during Pope Francis' visit to Philadelphia in September.

Choir member Michele Williams of Berwyn tells us, "The music is a wonderful challenge. The sound is amazing. I just feel like I'm part of something so incredible wonderful."

250 voices blending together for one momentous occasion.

The pontiff's visit is so special that two hymns were written specifically for the World Meeting of Families.

Music Director David Kimock says, "Music is so essential because it really becomes the corporate voice of the congregation. It enables the people's prayer to be heard and felt."

Rehearsals are being held every week leading up to the World Meeting of Families.

Each choir member was handpicked from archdiocese from around the Delaware Valley.

Jeri McCue of Wayne says, "It was all an audition process. Each church was allowed to nominate four members from their church to come and audition. And they had several days of auditions, which was very intense for the people that were here."

Intense but these singers say it's an honor to perform for the pope and the world.

David Maliakel of Hamilton, New Jersey tells us, "It's really, really exciting. Actually, my older brother...sang for the last pope in Washington DC when he was here. So now it's my turn, and I'm really excited."