Photos submitted to the Times Observer Young voices united in faith and song—students from Catholic schools across Pennsylvania and Ohio gather with the Most Reverend David Zubik, Celebrant Bishop, conductor Joseph Helinski, and organist Dr. Brian Gurley at St. Paul Cathedral for a memorable Pueri Cantores Festival.

It’s the choir’s third year attending the event, which brings together young singers from Catholic schools to celebrate choral music and faith.

Pueri Cantores fosters youth participation in sacred choral music through local, national, and international festivals. These events allow choirs to collaborate with peers from other cities and states, fostering friendships, cultural exchange, and a deepened appreciation for liturgical music.

“The first year, we had five students, then 14 the second year, and this year we had 20 students attend,” Glarner said. “It’s such a memorable experience–the kids who participate just want to keep coming back.”

The festival, a rigorous and immersive experience, requires extensive practice before the event and a full day of rehearsals leading up to a final performance at Mass. Much of the service is sung in Latin, presenting a unique challenge for young singers and an incredible musical and spiritual growth opportunity.

\St. Joseph Catholic School students proudly stand with the Most Reverend David Zubik, Celebrant Bishop, after performing at the Pueri Cantores Festival in St. Paul Cathedral.

“It’s a singing marathon,” Glarner noted, highlighting the dedication and perseverance of the students.

Participants receive medals to commemorate their hard work and commitment.

The event also collaborates among Catholic schools in Pennsylvania and Ohio, creating a unified choral experience. Kuntz, who previously sang in the audition-only choir at St. Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh, played a crucial role in guiding the students through this experience.

“She knows the space really well. I couldn’t do it without her help–it really is a team effort,” Glarner said.

Beyond the music, the festival leaves a lasting impact on students and their families. Glarner shared a touching moment when the Bishop blessed his daughter’s cross necklace after the service despite the large crowd.

Times Observer photo by Heather Cathcart-Norris St. Paul Cathedral's renowned pipe organ, originally provided by Andrew Carnegie and recognized as one of the finest in North America, filled the sacred space with music as St. Joseph's choir performed at the Pueri Cantores Festival.

“It was so sweet of him to take time to bless a child’s necklace,” he said.

The festival takes place at the historic St. Paul Cathedral, the mother church of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Established in 1833, the cathedral has a rich history, having undergone multiple reconstructions due to fire and urban development. The current Gothic Revival structure, inspired by Cologne Cathedral, was completed in 1906 and stands as an architectural masterpiece in the Oakland neighborhood.

St. Paul Cathedral houses a renowned pipe organ, originally provided by Andrew Carnegie and recognized as one of the finest in North America. The cathedral, a designated historic landmark, serves approximately 3,000 worshipers and provides an awe-inspiring setting for sacred music performances.

The setting of the festival adds to the grandeur of the experience. The historic pipe organ and soaring choir loft of St. Paul Cathedral provide a breathtaking backdrop, making the event all the more special.

“Not a lot of people get to experience it, and it’s so special that these kids get to sing there,” Glarner added.

The festival has become a defining tradition for St. Joseph’s music program.

“My students are already talking about coming back next year,” Glarner shared. “This is a world-class choral experience second to none. The music is incredible, and the conductor and organist are brilliant with the kids. There are so many hands that make it work–it’s such an honor to be part of this team.”