Priscilla Salisbury MSM ’22 has won Best Female Singer in the first-ever worldwide Catholic Music Awards on July 27, 2025 in Rome, Italy. Salisbury, a professional opera singer with her Masters in Sacred Music from University of St. Thomas, “Rejoice, Greatly, O Daughter of Zion,” from Handel’s Messiah.
Salisbury engaged in a Q&A with MAX Studios Bridget Richardson to share about the experience of being nominated and winning this incredible award.
Bridget Richardson: When did you first hear about the Catholic Music Awards?
Priscilla Salisbury: There was a reel on Instagram calling all Catholic musicians. One of my best friends sent it to me a day before the deadline!
BR: What was the nomination process like? Did you have to apply, or did they find you?
PS: I had to apply to the Catholic Music Awards and include a letter from a priest confirming you are a practicing Catholic, and the letter must include his seal. I had the honor of having Fr. Victor Perez from St. Joseph write me that letter. I contacted him the night before at 10 p.m., hoping he would see it the next day. The following day was the deadline, and I had a quinceañera to go to. I only had that morning to apply. Fr. Victor replied that very morning and said I don't have my staff to write it in a letterhead. He created his own and sent me a picture of the letter to which I turned into a PDF and attached it to the application. I am deeply thankful Fr. Victor helped me during this last-minute crunch.
BR: You also did a benefit concert at UST prior to going to Rome. Why was that concert special to you?
PS: The Chapel of St. Basil has always been special to me. I performed my master's recital there and I always felt an immense support during my time at UST. I have curated many recitals in my life, and this was very special because of the nomination. I organized this concert in three weeks! The trip to Rome was an expense I had not planned for, and I needed to raise funds. At the beginning of the year, I injured my knee leaving me unable to walk for several months. During that time, I performed in a wheelchair. The stress was overwhelming, and I kept losing my voice. I decided to quit the rest of the opera season until my health was better. Therefore, I was unable to work for several months and needed to raise funds for the trip. I am so deeply thankful for all my friends and family, including the Scanlan Foundation for all their support in helping me reach my goal.
BR: What was the experience of going to Rome for the awards ceremony like?
PS: It was an overwhelming feeling of joy. The jubilee was at its maximum peak, and the energy was so uplifting. Many people from all over the world meeting at the epicenter of our Church was a remarkable feeling. I was also very excited to have my family join me as it was their first time visiting. We were able to walk through the Holy Door at both the Basilica of St. Peter and the Basilica of St. John Lateran.
BR: Share what was going through your mind when you won Best Female Singer?
PS: Leading up to that night I kept thinking, “Being nominated is already a huge accomplishment.” I kept telling myself, “I have already won just by being here and being nominated – the rest is in God's hands.” Once we were in the auditorium that night, as the awards began, I started thinking, “Wait, what if I do win?!” I didn't have a speech prepared! I was very nervous every time a new category was announced, until finally the Best Female Singer Category was announced. Each category had four winners, one in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Italian. Then my category came, and English was the first one to be announced. As soon as Maity Interiano, the presenter, said, “The winner for Best Female Singer in English is... Pr…" I stood up, looked at my parents and screamed. Tears were rolling down my face as I walked to receive my award. I felt this immense sense of recognition for the 20 years I have dedicated to my craft and the Church.
BR: Has it been a flurry of press and interviews since winning (probably when the nomination was announced as well)?
PS: Yes, ABC 13 had done a special on my story and nomination before leaving for Rome. They attended my concert to cover the story. As soon as the awards ceremony was over, Bob Slovak texted me to confirm my win. He reported back to ABC. The next day my phone was flooded with congratulations from friends and family who had seen the big news on ABC 13. I also was featured in Univision and gave a brief thank you to the community supporting me back home. I have recently come back from California. I was invited to Havana Nights, a fundraiser for autism and veterans, hosted by actors Andy Garcia and Joe Mantegna in Los Angeles, Calif.
BR: How do you stay grounded with all your success?
PS: I think about my win every day and I thank God for it every time. Counting my blessings and taking a moment to thank God has kept me grounded.
BR: Do you have a favorite song you enjoy singing?
PS: During my time at UST, I discovered a Spanish “Ave Maria” by composer William Gomez. Many Catholics might not be aware we have many musical settings of the Ave Maria by numerous composers. This Ave Maria in particular speaks to me and I love singing it.
BR: How do you think UST enhanced your music and/or understanding of music?
PS: I was very fortunate to work with Dr. Knapp at UST. I felt that I grew immensely as a musician and singer. I love the dedication and care he gives to his students. It's a wonderful community and a nurturing environment that cultivates growth. I would like to thank Dr. Knapp for his musical guidance and support, and Dr. Walters, for being my spiritual mentor and cheerleader.
BR: Is there anything else you’d like to add about the award and/or your experience at UST?
PS: I am immensely grateful to my parents, family and friends for believing in me and for all their support.