Saint Cecilia was a third-century Christian virgin and martyr from Rome. According to tradition, she was a noblewoman who maintained her vow of virginity despite being forced into marriage with a pagan named Valerian. During her wedding, she is said to have sung to God in her heart, an act that led to her enduring reputation as the patron saint of music and musicians. She eventually faced martyrdom, and her feast day is celebrated on 22 November.