During the 1940's, the Archdiocese of Detroit established a music program for the development of future church musicians. The Palestrina Institute focused on church music ministry for boys' ages 13 through 18. Students studied church music history, chant, polyphony, organ, voice, piano, choral conducting and liturgy.

The program was housed near the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament where a number of musical activities were located. Although this program was discontinued by the late 1960's, many of its graduates are still involved in church music today.   It is evident that encouragement of youth and mentoring is valuable for the development of our future church leaders.

The Cathedral Children's Choir, an all new program for the Archdiocese of Detroit will encourage participation of both boys and girls in vocal music and liturgical celebration.