LaDonna Hill: The Unsung Hero Leading Leo Catholic Choir to “America’s Got Talent” Stardom
Byline: Archyde Staff
Published: [Date]
LaDonna Hill’s journey to the national spotlight on “America’s Got Talent” is as inspiring as the music her students create. For 25 years, she dedicated herself to shaping young voices at Leo Catholic High School, a historic institution nestled in Chicago’s Auburn-Gresham neighborhood. What began as a passion ignited by her upbringing as a pastor’s kid in a vibrant church has blossomed into a remarkable career, culminating in her all-boys choir capturing the hearts of millions.
Even as Hill embarks on her well-deserved retirement from teaching, her commitment to the Leo Catholic High School choir remains unwavering. She’s sticking around to guide the talented young men as they prepare for their third appearance on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent,” a testament to her profound impact and the choir’s undeniable potential. This dedication has transformed her into a compelling story in her own right, a narrative of passion, perseverance, and the power of accessible arts education.
Judge Simon Cowell himself has lauded Hill’s efforts, recognizing her unique approach to music education. Hill’s philosophy is refreshingly inclusive: “I made a commitment to not be elitist,” she shared. “I didn’t do it the textbook way, and that’s why I wanted any kid that wanted to be in my class.” This open-door policy has allowed countless boys, many of whom might not have had prior musical experience, to discover their hidden talents. “I had kids that didn’t know how to sing at all,” she admitted, “even that you see now on [‘America’s Got Talent’]. If they were willing to give me effort, I was willing to work hard to make sure I got them to where they needed to be.” This dedication to nurturing raw talent is precisely what sets her and the Leo choir apart.
The boys of Leo Catholic High School choir are set to grace the semifinals episode of “America’s Got Talent” this Tuesday. Their initial audition, a powerful rendition of The Score’s “Born For This,” left the judges in awe and secured their immediate advancement. Their subsequent performance of Imagine Dragons’ “Believer” resonated deeply with viewers nationwide, propelling them forward through audience votes into the competitive semifinals.
Hill’s decision to retire after 25 years might seem like a finale, but it’s more of a transition. She had previously considered stepping away in 2019, but encouragement from school staff convinced her to stay. This time, however, she feels a sense of completion and readiness for new musical ventures. “I’ve left [Leo] much far better than I received it, and so I can be at peace with that,” she stated. Her personal musical journey began at the tender age of 3, singing in church. Her love for music deepened as she learned clarinet, percussion, and piano, describing it as an innate part of her being. Her studies under gospel legend Rev. James Cleveland and her mentorship by Inez Andrews provided a solid foundation, leading to international performances and tours as a vocalist and pianist.
Now, Hill finds herself in Pasadena, California, alongside 18 Leo choir boys, immersed in the whirlwind of “America’s Got Talent” preparations. The students themselves credit Hill’s unwavering dedication for their success. “I feel like we got here only because of our hard working choir director,” said 18-year-old Keith Smith, a recent graduate. “She holds us to a very high standard every time we rehearse. Even if we’re just gathering together for a quick 10 minute practice, she still wants to pull 110% energy out of you.” Another graduate, Josue Ríos, added that Hill “sees the potential in every single one of us,” a sentiment echoed by many who consider her a “second mom.”
Leo Catholic High School President Dan McGrath, an alumnus himself, recognizes Hill’s exceptional contribution. “I think she goes a little bit beyond what the rest of us do,” he remarked. “She has genuine empathy and compassion for the boys, and they pick up on that, and I think it really inspires them to do their very best.” McGrath has witnessed the neighborhood’s evolution and Leo High’s resurgence, particularly after the arrival of Principal Dr. Shaka Rawls. Under their leadership, enrollment has reached a 30-year high, with many new students’ parents eagerly volunteering their sons for the choir.
The school is planning a large watch party for Tuesday’s semifinals, a celebration of the choir’s remarkable achievement. McGrath emphasized the broader significance of their success, especially amidst negative national narratives about Chicago. “We’re one of the really good things about Chicago, and we take that responsibility very seriously. We’re not just representing Leo High School, we’re representing the whole city.”
Hill’s dedication to fostering talent and building community through music has not only elevated her students but also brought positive recognition to Leo Catholic High School and the city of Chicago. Her legacy is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact one passionate educator can have, proving that talent can flourish anywhere with the right guidance and belief.
