Performing Arts

Free Verse is Central Catholic and Oakland Catholic’s student-run a cappella ensemble, founded in 2016 and named for poetry written without a regular rhyme or meter. True to its name, the group embraces creativity and individuality, delivering energetic performances that reflect the members’ musical interests—from pop hits to film scores and beyond.

Free Verse is entirely student-created and student-led, with members collaborating to arrange music, design choreography, and shape original performances. Through this process, students develop advanced skills in musicianship, vocal technique, ensemble singing, and performance artistry.

The group performs at the annual Christmas and Spring choir concerts and regularly competes in the International Championship of High School A Cappella (ICHSA). Free Verse has earned multiple honors, including awards for Outstanding Vocal Percussion, Outstanding Arrangement, and Outstanding Choreography.

Auditions are open to all students and are typically held in the fall and spring, at the group’s discretion.

Freshman Choir is a yearlong, half-credit course designed exclusively for first-year students who want to develop their singing skills in a supportive and engaging environment. The course introduces foundational vocal techniques and musicianship while helping students build confidence as singers.

Students explore a variety of musical styles while learning basic ear-training and introductory music-reading skills. Freshman Choir members perform in two major concerts each year—one at Christmas and one in the Spring.

Vocal Music II is a full-year course open to students in grades 9–12 who want to continue developing their vocal skills and musical confidence. Building on foundational techniques, the course places greater emphasis on strong performance skills, music literacy, and expressive singing.

Students explore a wide range of musical styles, including traditional choral works, sacred music, musical theatre, pop, and a cappella, while gaining experience in both solo and ensemble singing. Throughout the year, students showcase their growth in two major performances—a Christmas concert and a Spring concert.

Chamber Singers is a highly selective vocal ensemble for sophomores through seniors who demonstrate advanced musical ability and a commitment to artistic excellence. The ensemble focuses on the study and performance of challenging male choral literature, emphasizing vocal technique, musicianship, and expressive performance.

The choir regularly collaborates with the Oakland Catholic Chamber Singers, including joint performances and concerts. Chamber Singers also play an important role in the life of the school by providing music for all school Masses.

The Masque is the premier musical theatre program of Central Catholic and Oakland Catholic High Schools. Each year, the Masque produces two fully staged theatrical productions, offering students the opportunity to bring stories to life on stage and behind the scenes.

Students with interests in singing, acting, and dancing are encouraged to audition for the cast, while those drawn to the technical and creative side of theatre can join the crew, working with sets, costumes, props, sound, and microphones. The Masque provides a collaborative environment where students develop confidence, creativity, and professional-level skills.

Recognized as one of the top high school theatre programs in the Pittsburgh region, the Masque performs in the beautiful McGonigle Theater at Central Catholic High School, delivering memorable productions for the school and broader community.