Our Story

Gayle Roschi dreamed of starting a children's choir for many years, but the demands of raising a family and teaching private vocal and piano lessons commanded all her time. Yet, no time was wasted because Gayle had spent 30 years studying, teaching, and refining her musical skills. Finally, a window of opportunity opened to pursue her dream, and she was perfectly equipped to become the founding Artistic Director of the Hancock County Children's Choir. Gayle called on Leanne Cherry, a long-time personal friend and colleague to come aboard as the first HCCC accompanist.

Lisa Heady longed for an opportunity for her children and others to sing in a choir. Road weary from traveling to Indianapolis for lessons and cultural activities, Lisa was convinced that there were plenty of families in east-central Indiana who shared her feelings. Together with a handful of dedicated parents, Lisa encouraged Gayle to come to Hancock County to begin her choir.

Sixteen students enrolled in the choir in the fall of 2011, and their first performance was to a standing room only audience at New Palestine Bible Church. It was clear that the talent needed to develop a significant choir was indeed present, and the community expressed its support.

The choir has steadily grown to 8 ensembles serving children ages 5-18. In 2019, our enrollment reached 147 students.  The pandemic and necessary schedule changes reduced our enrollment, but not our commitment! To date, membership has grown again to more than 120 students.

In its short history, HCCC has performed at New York's famed Carnegie Hall twice and was invited back for two more performances in 2016 and 2017. Performing for the nationally televised Dove Awards and on Indianapolis Fox affiliate Channel 59 were the highlights of 2017. Though the pandemic interrupted our plans to travel to Europe in the summer of 2021, we look forward to returning to Carnegie Hall in 2027.