Today Is November 22

Saint Cecilia is the patroness of musicians. Her feast day is November 22nd, which is the occasion of concerts and musical festivals. The first record of a music festival in her honor was held at Évreux in Normandy in 1570.

Saint Cecilia playing the pipe organ

A 2nd century Christian Roman maiden of patrician birth, Saint Cecilia was compelled to marry a young pagan, Valerian, despite a vow of celibacy. It is written that while the profane music was played at Saint Cecilia's wedding, she was "singing in her heart a hymn of love for Jesus, her true spouse" hence her association with music-making.

Saint Cecilia succeeded in persuading Valerian to respect her vow, and converted him to her Christian faith. They were both put to death for their beliefs.

Saint Cecilia is one of several virgin martyrs commemorated by name in the Canon of the Mass in the Latin Church.