Dear Current and Future St. Pius X Families,

My name is Ann Marie “Anna” Guillen, and I have the privilege of serving as the Music Director for St. Pius X Catholic School for the 2025–2026 academic year, instructing students from Kindergarten through 8th Grade. This is my fifth year on staff, and I am honored to guide your children as they grow in their musical knowledge and skills.

At St. Pius X, our Music Curriculum is aligned with the standards set forth by the Archdiocese of San Antonio and the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). The TEKS framework outlines four fundamental strands—foundations: music literacy; creative expression; historical and cultural relevance; and critical evaluation and response—which provide the structure for the knowledge and skills students are expected to master (TEKS Music Standards K–8). These strands support the development of music literacy through reading, writing, reproducing, and creating music; foster creativity through vocal and instrumental performance; cultivate an understanding of music’s historical and cultural significance; and strengthen students’ ability to listen, analyze, and respond critically to musical works.

Our program utilizes MusicPlayOnline.com, a comprehensive digital curriculum that allows students from Pre-K through Middle School to explore music theory, history, notation, rhythm, and more. Students will have continuous access to this platform throughout the school year via their student access codes. Through this curriculum, students will gain a strong foundation in the fundamentals of music literacy. Beginning in Kindergarten, they will use their primary instrument—their voice—to participate in classroom singing and weekly liturgical celebrations. In the spring semester, students will further develop their rhythmic and literacy skills through hands-on experience with instruments such as recorders and bucket drums. Our Pre-Kindergarten students also participate in the Music Program, twice a month on Fridays, where they experience an introduction to our music curriculum. Additionally, all students are expected to participate in our Annual Advent Concert held in December.

Students in second grade and above are invited to join the Student Music Ministry, where they have the honor of leading music during weekly school liturgies and at select Sunday parish celebrations. This ministry provides an enriching opportunity for students to develop leadership skills while serving our faith community.

Students from 2nd through 8th Grade will also have the opportunity to participate in the Archdiocese of San Antonio’s Sing at the Cross Annual Choral Competition. We are proud to share that for the past three years, our choral group has received a Superior rating—the highest awarded—in the categories of Liturgical A Capella, Liturgical with Accompaniment, and Religious Contemporary.

We look forward to partnering with you in supporting your child’s musical development and in helping them grow as faithful “Leaders for Christ.”

Blessings to you and your family,
Ann Marie “Anna” Guillen
Music Director
St. Pius X Catholic School