Our Legacy: A History of Harmony and Growth
Cincinnati Sound Chorus is built on a rich and vibrant musical legacy that spans over six decades. Our journey began in 1957 on Cincinnati’s west side with the formation of the Seven Hills Chapter of what was then Sweet Adelines, Inc. Just seven years later, a second chorus—Miami Valley Chapter—was established on the city’s east side. Over time, Miami Valley evolved into Clermont Valley Chorus in 1968 and later adopted the name Queen City Chorus in 1977.
Both choruses cultivated their own unique identities, musical styles, and traditions, each guided by a series of passionate and talented directors. Notably, Tom Gentil led Seven Hills for over 38 years, leaving an indelible mark on the group's musical excellence. Similarly, Queen City flourished under directors like Suzy Harding Moorhead and Lynn Hartmuth, who would later play a key role in bringing the two choruses together.
In 1998, both groups found themselves rehearsing at the same central location—Valley Temple in Wyoming, OH. As their paths continued to overlap and the musical community grew tighter, conversations about uniting the two choruses gained momentum. When then-director Jason Remley announced a move to California, those conversations turned into action.
In January 2007, following months of collaboration and planning, the Cincinnati Sound Chapter was officially chartered, with the legacy charter date of 1957 preserved to honor our shared history. The merger combined decades of vocal talent, camaraderie, and competitive success—and immediately proved powerful. That same year, the newly formed Cincinnati Sound Chorus won First Place at the Regional level.
A Tradition of Excellence
Both legacy choruses earned recognition at Sweet Adelines International competitions, consistently placing well at the regional level. Since merging, Cincinnati Sound Chorus has built upon that strong foundation of success—continuing to strive for musical excellence while growing in strength, unity, and collective voice.
Our journey has continued to evolve, even through significant challenges. In 2020, as the world confronted a global pandemic, CSC was also navigating a leadership transition. Amid this uncertainty, the chorus welcomed Jack Johnson as Musical Director—hired virtually, without having led a single in-person rehearsal.
Jack’s leadership proved transformative. Over the next four years, Cincinnati Sound Chorus experienced steady artistic growth, with scores rising consistently through dedication, innovation, and the power of community. In 2024, CSC reached a major milestone, earning First Place Overall at the Harmony Heartland Regional Competition and being named Regional Champion Chorus.
That achievement led to the international stage, where Cincinnati Sound Chorus proudly represented Harmony Heartland Region 4 at the 2025 Sweet Adelines International Competition and Convention in Columbus, Ohio, placing 16th among top choruses from around the world. This accomplishment reflects not only musical excellence, but also the resilience, commitment, and shared vision that continue to shape our chorus.
Your Voice, Our Future
The history of Cincinnati Sound Chorus is more than a timeline—it's a living tradition of musical growth, lifelong friendships, and extraordinary experiences. As we look to the future, we invite you to become a part of our next chapter.
Whether you're a seasoned singer or discovering your voice for the first time, there's a place for you in our chorus. With professional coaching, performance opportunities, competitive events, and a deeply supportive community, CSC offers an experience unlike any other.
Come sing with us—your voice belongs here.
