Sharing the Gift of Music with Ms. Hannel

Hello!  My name is Katelyn Hannel and I am the music teacher and youth choir director at St. Thomas More.  I am a graduate of The Catholic University of America with a degree in music education and a minor in theology.  After graduating in 2015, I spent eight years as a music teacher and choir director in the Fairfax County Public Schools system before joining STM in 2023.   

I grew up as both a pianist and a singer, and now have the blessing of doing both of these activities in a professional capacity. Within the sacred music community of the Washington, DC area, I have had the privilege to participate in a wide breadth of church music experiences across the Diocese of Arlington and the Archdiocese of Washington. These experiences have shaped my vision as I coordinate the liturgical music for our school Masses. I seek to serve the spiritual needs of students, families, and staff through meaningful texts, prayerful experiences, and joyful musical traditions that connect us with our universal Church and speak God’s peace to all. I love to also bring students into opportunities beyond STM, like our annual youth choir trip to the Basilica.   

Having had an unlikely path to becoming a professional musician, and with sincere gratitude for life's opportunities, I believe in fostering a growth mindset, noticing potential, and helping students learn not to limit themselves. I am deeply passionate about helping students grow in comfort and confidence, whether in or outside of music, so that they can experience the inner freedom that God desires for each of us.   

Outside of music and teaching, I love travel, photography, hiking, running, and being an aunt to my beloved niece and nephew.  I look forward to seeing what God has in store for the coming year!