Tina Johns Heidrich
Music Director and Conductor
Tina Johns Heidrich is the Founder and Music Director of the Connecticut Master Chorale.
Ms. Heidrich’s unique approach of “work hard but have fun” and her immense energy ensure an exciting and educational experience for her singers, while eliciting their very highest performance quality. Celebrated for her spirited and moving concert performances, she has earned noteworthy acclaim in Connecticut and beyond for her eclectic and innovative programming, passionate style of conducting, and dedication to the choral arts.
In just eight years, Ms. Heidrich has led the Chorale to artistic heights and recognition - including the great honor of being invited to sing at the White House in December 2002. The Chorale has also performed at Madison Square Garden, Carnegie Hall (three times), West Point Military Academy, and with the Ridgefield Symphony as their guest chorus all by invitation. They won the annual McDonald’s Gospelfest Competition for three consecutive years, and appeared on ABC TV.
Born and raised in Danbury, Ms. Heidrich earned her Bachelor and Master of Science Degrees in Vocal Music Education from Western Connecticut State University. She has studied with renowned conductors including Joseph Flummerfelt, Gregg Smith, André Thomas, Alice Parker, and John Rutter.
With an extensive background and over 30 years of experience in choral and orchestral conducting, she has directed numerous school, church and community choirs and orchestras, and musical theatre. She has served as Guest Conductor for several groups. She has directed choruses on tour in Eastern Europe, Canada, and Washington, DC, and on ABC’s “Good Morning America.” She has been Director of Music and Organist of the First Congregational Church of Bethel since 1990.
Ms. Heidrich is a certified Vocal Adjudicator for the Connecticut All-State Chorus. She is also affiliated with the American Choral Directors Association, Chorus America, Association of Connecticut Choruses, Conductors Guild, and the Society for Professional Music Directors. Ms. Heidrich is an active vocal and instrumental composer and arranger.