In 1864, a Catholic Normal School and Pio Nono College was planned by Rev. Salzman. In 1870, the cornerstone for the school was laid and named for Pope Pius IX. The schools major functions was the training in music. In 1873, Professor Singeberger travelled from Germany to head the music program, and organized the American Caecilian Society. The first graduate was in 1891. In 1892 a two-year course for business education was commenced. In 1923 the "normal school-college" aspect was dissolved and Pio Nono became a Catholic Boarding School for boys.

The school's primary focus was music, since the office of an organist and choirmaster was frequently combined with that of teacher. Professor Singenberger arrived from Germany to head the music program. in 1873. While here, he organized the American Caecilian Society.