Grace Gill - Head Choir Director

Grace.Gill@risd.org

Grace Gill has been a dedicated educator in the Richardson Independent School District (RISD) for the past seven years. From 2017 to 2019, she served as the Choir Director at Parkhill Junior High, where she developed a strong choral program. Before returning to Richardson, Grace was the Head Choir Director at Deer Creek High School in Edmond, Oklahoma, leading her choirs to numerous successes.

Currently, Grace directs the Acappella Choir and Forte at J.J. Pearce High School, where her choirs consistently earn top ratings at competitions and festivals. Her passion for music and commitment to excellence is evident in the achievements of her students.

In 2013, Grace was honored as the Teacher of the Year by Deer Creek Public Schools, recognizing her outstanding contributions to music education.

A proud alumna of RISD, Grace graduated from J.J. Pearce High School in 2006. She then pursued her love for music at the University of Oklahoma, earning dual degrees in Music Education and Vocal Performance. Grace is an active member of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA), and Texas Choral Directors Association (TCDA).

Grace is also a proud mother to her son, Cooper, who will be turning seven in October.

Matthew Wortham-Merritt - Associate Choir Director

matthew.wortham-merritt@risd.org

Matthew Merritt is in his second year of teaching at Pearce High School. Matthew is a graduate of Duncanville High School. While he was there he was involved in choir and was a 2-time member of the Texas All State Choir. He received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from the Southern Methodist University and is a member of the Texas Music Educator's Association (TMEA).

 
​At Pearce, Matthew teaches Tenor/Bass Choir and Bella Voce Treble Choir. He is thrilled to be apart of the Pearce Area Choir team and is excited for a wonderful school year!