1 September 2026

In 1962, the Academia de Música São Pio X – Macau′s first formal music institution – was founded by Fr Áureo Castro. Its establishment marked a significant milestone in the development of local music education. Over the past sixty-four years, the Academia has trained many of Macau′s young musical talents. Our graduates have received awards and honours both in Macau and abroad, and many are actively contributing to the enrichment of Macau′s cultural life.

In 2018, Bishop Stephen Lee Bun-sang approved the use of the premises located at Rua da Praia do Bom Parto No. 19-21 (the former Matteo Ricci College Primary Section) as our new campus. After three years of restoration and renovation, we moved to this campus in September 2019. With a better learning environment, more space and improved facilities for both our teachers and students, the campus has supported five years of growth and development.

The academic year 2025-2026 was a particularly fruitful year for the Academia. A major event was the installation of a pipe organ built by the renowned Casavant Frères organ builders from Canada. A concert and inauguration ceremony for the instrument was held on 11 January 2026. In the same month, the Academia launched the “Pipe Organ Performance Certificate Course”. For the first time, we introduced a youth certificate course alongside the adult course, giving young people an early opportunity to explore organ music.

Another major event was our “With Praise and Thanksgiving” concert on 25 July to celebrate the 450th anniversary of the establishment of the Catholic Diocese of Macau. The concert featured mainly choral and organ music, with the aim to preserve and promote our sacred music heritage. A highlight of the concert was the choir of over 100 students performing the musical The Trouble of Zerubbabel by William Anderson, conducted by the Academia’s Composer-in-Residence, Dr Viola Yuen. The work, based on a story from the Old Testament, focusses on faith, steadfastness and courage in face of adversity, and echoes the Church’s enduring spirit of service to the community throughout history.

The year drew to a satisfactory close the following day on 26 July with the Academia’s “Annual Concert and Awards Ceremony”. This event is not only a platform to showcase students’ achievements and the work of dedicated teachers, but is also a cherished occasion that strengthens unity and sense of community within the Academia. As in previous years, a wide range of scholarships, prizes and awards were presented to students who have made significant progress or excelled in the areas of performance, composition and music theory. But of course, learning music is not simply about winning prizes. The Academia motto “Let Music be the Path to Truth, Let Virtue be the Source of Grace” guides us to develop not only strong musical skills, but also exemplary character and virtue. I sincerely hope that award recipients would be inspired to continually improve musically and as a person of humility and strong morals.

As the 2026–2027 academic year begins, the Academia has refined its music theory curriculum and introduced new courses to better meet students’ learning needs and enhance teaching and learning outcomes.

First, the “Higher Theory Course” has been condensed from four years to two, focusing on essential music theory knowledge and practical application. This will also help to ease some of the pressure Higher Level students face in their schoolwork. Second, for the first time, students from our long-term pipe organ courses will be able to take their ABRSM examinations here at the Academia. This integration of learning and assessment improves exam preparation efficiency and gives students clearer guidance for their studies. Third, building on the success of our short-term choral conducting courses over the past two years, and in response to student requests for extended instruction, we are launching a 24-session choral conducting course this academic year. The course also includes a new junior track, enabling young people interested in conducting to make an early start in this area.

In addition, the Academia will offer short-term courses in aural training and music appreciation. Students may choose courses according to their specific needs, ensuring a well-rounded musical training across different levels and disciplines. Last but not least, the Academia will continue to host an array of concerts and musical events, many of which are open to the public free of charge, providing a rich and varied experience to all.

Looking ahead, the Academia will continue to dedicate its efforts in nurturing local musical talent and contributing to the development of music education in Macao.

Basilla Sam Weng Io
Director