Chorus History

The St. Pius X Chorus program began in the early 1960’s with Sr. Mary Barbara, R.S.M. She directed both the Glee Club and Choir. She also composed the original Alma Mater (not the one currently in use).  In the 60’s, the Glee Club was one of the largest and most active organizations in the school. The Glee Club gave the annual concerts at St. Pius X. Performances were also given at various locations around the Atlanta area including the Cancer Home and Pinetree Plaza. Sr. Claire Marie, R.S.M. took over the Glee Club in 1967. In 1968, Mr. Peter Fischer, a St. Pius X student, composed the current Alma Mater. Mr. Fischer, who now goes by the name Peter Hesed, is currently Director of Music and the Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. The St. Pius X Chorus was established in 1972 under the direction of Sr. Mary Frances Duffy, G.N.S.H. In 1977, the Chorus had over 50 members. From the late 1970’s
through the early 2000’s, the Chorus program was shaped by the talents of Alan Brown, Skip Williams, John McDonald, Debbie Ribelin, Daniel Moore, Mark Monk-Winstanley, Steve Jones, Paul Tate, Richard Marcus, Chad Paetznick, Gail Goodman, and Clay Causey. Through the years, students have attended festivals in Orlando, Florida, Nassau, Bahamas, and Williamsburg, Virginia. Chorus members continue to earn superior ratings in the GMEA District IV Large Group Choral Festival. In 2016, Millie Turek became the choral director. Upon her departure, the program has continued to grow and evolve. Mrs. Rebecca Rose served as the Chorus Club moderator from 2021-2022. Students performed in the Black History Month assembly, the Arts Assembly and their student led Spring Concert.

We welcome Mr. Mike Abreu as our new director of Chorus and Music Ministry. We look forward to seeing our students thrive in the new learning environment he will create!