A Song of Faith and History: The JPII Cardinal Choir is Headed to Italy!
For any young musician, the opportunity to perform on a world-class stage is a dream. For the members of the John Paul II (JPII) Cardinal Choir, that dream is about to become a breathtaking reality. We are thrilled to announce a once-in-a-lifetime invitation for our choir to travel and perform across Italy in June 2027!
This isn't just a simple field trip; it’s an international journey of music, culture, and faith that will leave a lasting impact on our students' lives. Under the direction of Mr. Gerardo Olivares, the choir will represent the JPII community at some of the most historic and sacred venues on the planet.
Voices Rising in Ancient Halls
Imagine the sound of our students' voices echoing through the cobblestone streets of Italy’s iconic cities. The 2027 tour will feature a series of formal evening concert performances, allowing the choir to showcase the technical skill and emotional depth they’ve worked so hard to cultivate.
While the evening concerts will be grand, the heart of this tour lies in two specific liturgical celebrations. First, the choir has the profound honor of singing for Mass at the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi. To perform in the home of St. Francis—a figure of peace and humility—is a deeply meaningful experience that connects our students directly to the legacy of our faith.
The journey will reach its majestic climax in Vatican City. The Cardinal Choir has been invited to provide the liturgy at St. Peter’s Basilica. Singing in the epicenter of the Catholic Church is an incredible honor and a moment that will undoubtedly be the highlight of their high school careers.
More Than Just Music
This invitation is a direct reflection of the tireless dedication of our vocal students and a testament to the excellence of the JPII Fine Arts program. However, the benefits of this trip extend far beyond the sheet music.
“This tour provides a unique opportunity for students to grow musically, spiritually, and culturally,” says Vocal Music Director Gerardo Olivares. “They aren’t just performing; they are representing our school community on a global stage.”
By navigating new cities, experiencing Italian history firsthand, and sharing their gifts with international audiences, our students will return home with a broader perspective of the world and a strengthened bond of fellowship.
Support the Journey
An undertaking of this magnitude is only possible through the incredible support of our JPII family. From the parents and faculty to the local community, your encouragement of the JPII Performing and Fine Arts allows our students to reach for the stars—and in 2027, to reach across the ocean.
As we begin the preparations for this historic pilgrimage, we ask for your continued prayers and support for our vocalists. We look forward to sharing more updates as we get closer to June 2027.
To our choir students: your hard work has opened a door to the world. We can’t wait to hear you sing.
Ad majorem Dei gloriam.
About John Paul II High School
John Paul II High School (JPII) is the premier Catholic, coeducational, college-preparatory institution in Collin County, Texas, offering a supportive, faith-based environment where students excel academically and grow spiritually. JPII emphasizes a challenging curriculum, including AP and honors courses, to prepare students for top universities.