About
About Our Choir
The St. Gregory the Great Children’s Choir is named after Pope Gregory the Great who was pope from 590 to 604. Pope Gregory was recognized in his lifetime for his prayerful and generous character and is credited by latter generations with helping to preserve and foster liturgical excellence and singing. Gregorian Chant, known in other Christian traditions as Plainchant, is an integral part of our music curriculum not only because it is named after our patron saint, but because it has been the central musical element of Christian worship for over 1000 years.
In addition to our focus on chant, children in our choir learn to sing hymns, psalms, and choral masterworks from the Middle Ages to the present day. Particular emphasis is given to a broad stylistic repertoire from across the European tradition. Students are also given exposure in singing in different languages such as Latin, Spanish, German, and French.
Our Music Director
David Elliott is music director of St. Mary Catholic Church in Alexandria, Virginia. He is a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music and the Royal College of Music in London where he studied composition and conducting. David has also pursued Doctoral Studies in Sacred Music at the Catholic University of America where he studied organ and choral conducting.
As a composer, David’s secular works have been performed on several continents and by many leading ensembles including the BBC Scottish Symphony. His sacred choral works have been performed in such venues as the Basilica Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington DC and at many churches in Washington DC area. As a conductor, he has lead ensembles in the US, UK, and and Europe and has participated in masterclasses with such musicians as Pierre Boulez, Steve Reich, Hans Werner Henze, and James Macmillan.
