Watch this short film, below, which captures the sights and, more significantly, the sounds of the recent Michigan Youth Choral Festival & Mass which was hosted by Saint Francis of Assisi Parish, Ann Arbor on March 15, 2025.
"How does sacred music give glory to God?" asked parish pastor, Father James Conlon, "It's about giving back to God what he has bestowed upon us, but giving it back with a heart full of gratitude and joy."
The festival was organized by Pueri Cantores, the Church's international student choral organization of the Church. In total, over 230 young choristers representing seven choirs (grades 4-12) from across the State of Michigan participated. The event was led by guest conductor Paul French, who, in addition to being a composer and parish music director, is also president of the American Federation of Pueri Cantores.
"Sacred music, in its most profound form, points itself to God," said Paul, "It just us through the singing and playing and engaging in these words that give God praise, that highlight God's mercy, can draw us deeper into our faith. Christ is sacred music. Christ is the reason for what we do here in the church."
The festival begin with morning workshops and rehearsals, and concluded with Holy Mass. The choral repertoire was varied, with an emphasis on pieces that can be used for parish or school events.