Richard Dittus, Jr., M.M.

Richard Dittus graduated from Ave Maria University in 2008 as one of the first students to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Music, with a concentration in Sacred Music. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Choral Conducting from the University of North Florida. As a composer, Richard has had two songs published by ILP Publications: “Be Still My Soul” and “Draw Near.” Additionally, he contributed to the composition of music for the pro-life, computer-animated film Skiff and AJ’s Fantastic Voyage, which is available to watch on Formed. Richard was recently commissioned by St. William's Catholic Church in Naples to compose an original hymn to celebrate the church's 50th Anniversary. With over 15 years of experience, Richard currently serves as the music director at St. Peter the Apostle in Naples. At Ave Maria University, he conducts the Men’s and Women’s Schola Gregoriana. Richard and his wife Maria have six children, three goats, and a flock of chickens.