Our Story & Impact
Our organization has evolved in its more than 27 years of existence. And while names have changed and faces have changed, one thing remains the same… our mission to change lives through songs. We’ve implemented programs, concerts, staff and board members with intentional outreach to create diversity and inclusion for all to enjoy music. As we look ahead to the next decades, there is no doubt more change and more evolution. However, lives and communities will still feel the impact and benefit from our arts effort.
Our Story
Heartland Sings is a nonprofit vocal production company based in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Founded in 1997 by Maestro Robert Nance, Heartland Sings has grown into an organization consisting of 5 Principal Vocal Artists, 24 Vocal Artists, and a number of volunteer vocalists auditioned for larger symphonic productions. With these, Heartland Sings creates a number of diverse programs and productions, including small jazz ensemble performances, opera and musical theater programs, educational and community outreach events, and large-scale choral orchestral productions.
For nearly two decades, Heartland Sings has been changing the lives of participants and patrons through song. Heartland entertains and enriches audiences within a 225-mile radius of Fort Wayne with the purpose of serving as a professional, educational resource for the vocal arts, cultivating a community of artistic and cultural appreciation, and providing performance opportunities to area vocalists and musicians.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization, the company's expenses have historically been funded by generous donors, corporate support, grants from foundations and government agencies and ticket sales. Our strategic plan, currently in process, is to transition Heartland Sings into a revenue-producing nonprofit performing arts company, which can sustain career vocalists and other appropriate artistic and administrative staff who in turn impact the communities in which we operate through the art they create. Once the strategic goals have been met, Heartland Sings will sustain its basic operations and donor funds can be used to more adequately fund education and community enrichment programming.
(1997) Maestro Robert Nance directing.
Mission and Vision Statement
Our Mission:
Heartland Sings inspires people of all ages and abilities through cultural and entertainment experiences, educational programs, and community outreach. Heartland Sings is changing lives through song.
Approved by the Board of Directors January 2019
Our Vision:
Heartland Sings is a mission-driven performing arts institution that fosters an appreciation for the vocal arts, inspiring audiences and artists through exceptional cultural and entertainment experiences, educational programs, and community outreach.
Approved by the Board of Directors February 2019
Be part of Heartland Sings
Whether you’re looking for employment opportunities as part of our staff, wanting to volunteer or become a board member, or want to audition to sing with Heartland Sings, you can connect with us below: