A Demanding School,
Within Reach of Every Family
We are still in the planning stage and are not enrolling yet. Families interested in our first class of grades 6–8 can join our interest list now and be the first to hear about information evenings and auditions.
Two Simple Steps
We want to get to know your family, and to hear your child sing. We expect some musical background, but no particular certificates are required.
A Family Conversation
We sit down with your child and with you to talk about what St. Cecilia is like day to day and to make sure it is a good fit for your family.
- Parents who want a traditional Catholic education for their child
- A student who is excited to sing every day
- Support for our screen-light approach at school
A Short Singing Audition
Your child sings for a panel of professional musicians from outside the school. They listen for accurate pitch, steady rhythm, vocal range, and the potential to grow. We expect some musical background, such as choir, lessons, or an instrument, but no particular certificates or exam grades.
Fair to Every Child
Every child is scored the same way, using one standard rubric. As at most arts schools, the panel's decisions are final and individual feedback is not provided.
Priority for St. Ignatius Families
We believe no child who is ready to sing God's praise should be turned away for lack of money. Because St. Cecilia will live in the St. Ignatius school building, we want to serve the families of our home parish first.
St. Cecilia will be open to Catholic families from across Denver. Active St. Ignatius parishioners will receive two benefits:
First in Line
The school's bylaws will give active St. Ignatius families first priority when places are offered.
Scholarship Priority
St. Ignatius families will receive first priority for tuition help from the St. Cecilia scholarship fund.
Who Qualifies
Each year, the pastor confirms that a family is active in the parish, meaning:
- Worship: Mass every Sunday
- Service: Volunteering in the parish
- Giving: Regular support of the parish
Our hope is that school families will also become part of the life of the parish, and that the school and the parish will grow stronger together.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will St. Cecilia open?
We are aiming to welcome our first students in Fall 2029. We are now in the first of five planning steps: forming our founding board. Join the mailing list and we will tell you as soon as auditions and information evenings are scheduled.
Does my child need musical training?
Yes, some. We expect students who audition to have some musical background, such as singing in a choir, voice or piano lessons, or playing an instrument. No particular certificates or exam grades are required. The audition looks at pitch, rhythm, vocal range, and potential to grow.
Is St. Cecilia for boys, girls, or both?
Both. Boys sing in the St. Gregory Choir and girls in the St. Cecilia Choir, and the two choirs share the music at Mass equally. Academic classes are taken together.
How much will tuition cost?
Tuition will be set on a sliding scale based on what each family can afford, supported by our scholarship fund. Admission decisions are made without looking at a family’s finances. We will publish full details before applications open.
Do we have to belong to St. Ignatius Parish?
No. St. Cecilia will welcome families from across the Denver area. Active St. Ignatius parishioners will simply receive first priority for admission and for tuition help.
What happens when a boy’s voice changes?
He stays fully involved. While his voice rests and settles, he learns conducting, score reading, and arranging, and takes on leadership roles in the music program.
Will students use computers or tablets?
Very little. Classes will rely on printed books, handwriting, and real instruments. We believe children focus and think best with fewer screens.
Where is the school?
We plan to lease the historic St. Ignatius parish school building at 2350 N. Gaylord Street, pending approval. It is a three-story brick school built in 1920, next to St. Ignatius Church, where the choirs will sing, and across the street from City Park, the Denver Zoo, and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
Tell Us About Your Family
We are not enrolling yet, but we would love to hear from you. Send us a note and we will keep you informed as auditions and information evenings are scheduled.
