This year, Columbus Children’s Choir proudly celebrates its 30th anniversary as an independent organization—a milestone that honors not only decades of music-making, but also a legacy that began nearly four decades ago. Since our founding, CCC has empowered generations of young voices, provided transformative experiences in music education, and enriched the cultural fabric of Central Ohio and beyond. The history of Columbus Children’s Choir began in 1987, when Christian Badea, then conductor of the Columbus Symphony, requested the formation of a children’s chorus. Under the direction of Dr. Sandra Mathias, the Columbus Symphony Orchestra Children’s Chorus gave its first performance that same spring, following just six weeks of rehearsal. Over the next decade, the choir flourished—performing regularly with the Columbus Symphony and earning invitations to conferences, festivals, and international stages. In 1996, the ensemble became an independent nonprofit and adopted the name Columbus Children’s Choir, launching its first season with three ensembles: Nina, Pinta, and Santa Maria. From those three founding ensembles, CCC expanded steadily. By 2004, the organization had five choirs serving children in grades 3-12 and a Young Musicians Class for children in first and second grade, affirming its commitment to early childhood music education. Today, CCC serves all school age students through multiple choirs, classes, festivals, and community engagement efforts. Our mission has always been simple and powerful: to foster the personal growth of children through meaningful experiences in music education and vocal performance. Columbus Children’s Choir has had the honor of performing at some of the most prestigious venues in the world. Our premier ensemble, the New World Singers, not only represents Columbus on international stages but also earns the highest honors in the choral world. Past accolades include: The New World Singers have dazzled audiences in Austria, Germany, Spain, France, and Hungary, performing alongside renowned groups such as the Vienna Boys’ Choir and headlining the Granada International Music and Dance Festival. Closer to home, they have collaborated with BalletMet, Opera Columbus, Harmony Project, Worthington Chamber Orchestra, and the Columbus Symphony, and they are featured annually in one of the nation’s largest Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebrations. Under the artistic leadership of Jeanne Wohlgamuth since 2012, CCC has entered a bold new era—growing its programs, expanding its reach, and deepening its commitment to artistic excellence. Each season, CCC serves over 500 students and music educators through workshops, festivals, school visits, and community-based programming. This season, we’re not just celebrating our past—we’re building our future. Our 30th anniversary year includes: None of this would be possible without the parents, educators, donors, volunteers, and community partners who have supported us throughout the years. Columbus Children’s Choir is a reflection of the community that nurtures it—and this milestone belongs to all of you. Whether you’re a proud alum, a longtime supporter, or a new family discovering CCC for the first time, we invite you to be part of this moment. Attend a concert. Share your CCC story. Make a gift in honor of 30 years. Most importantly, help us continue to lift up young voices—and fill the world with song. Here’s to the next 30 years of music, growth, and joyful community. Celebrating 30 Years of Music, Joy, and Community: Columbus Children’s Choir Turns 30!
From Symphony Roots to Global Stages
A Legacy of Growth and Excellence
Global Footprint, Local Impact
A New Chapter
Thank You to Our Village
Join the Celebration
Dr. Sandra Mathias, Director Emerita
Professor Emerita of Music at Capital University, Dr. Mathias received her Bachelor of Science in music education from SUNY Fredonia; Master of Arts with Orff concentration from Ball State University; Ph.D. in Music Education from The Ohio State University; and her Kodály certification from the Kodály Institute of America. Dr. Mathias is the recipient of the Kodály Institute Intézetért Award, the 2001 Community Music Educator of the year from the Columbus Symphony, the Arts Freedom Award presented by the Southside Settlement House, and the 2006 Outstanding Educator Award from the Organization of American Kodály Educators (OAKE). She has served as guest conductor for the Georgia All-State Middle School Treble Chorus and the National Children’s Choir of OAKE. Dr. Mathias has been a guest lecturer in England, China, Hungary, and the Canary Islands. Dr. Mathias served as the Founder and Artistic Director of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra Children’s Choir and the Columbus Children’s Choir for 25 years.
- Est. 1996