The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir (ISC) is powered by more than exceptional voices—it is sustained and guided by leaders who believe in the transformative power of music. One of those leaders is The Very Rev. Dr. Gray Lesesne, an influential voice in the arts and the faith community of Indianapolis. As the ISC’s Board of Directors President, Rev. Lesesne brings spiritual insight, nonprofit experience, and a deep appreciation for choral music’s capacity to unite, inspire, and heal.
A Mission That Resonates
“For me, joining the board was a natural extension of my values,” Rev. Lesesne explains. “As a faith leader, I believe in the power of the arts to build bridges, create meaning, and foster connection. The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir doesn’t just perform music—it delivers experiences that uplift the human spirit and bring people together across divisions.”
That alignment between mission and meaning drew Rev. Lesesne to the organization. The Choir’s commitment to sharing the joy, beauty, and transcendent power of choral music speaks to a spiritual yearning as much as an artistic one—a need to belong, to be moved, and to imagine something greater than ourselves.
Music as a Spiritual Language
Rev. Lesesne’s relationship with choral music is deeply rooted in his work as a priest, where sacred music is more than tradition—it is testimony.
“There is something uniquely powerful about many voices coming together to create a unified sound,” he reflects. “Choral music teaches us to listen with intention, to harmonize with those around us, and to create beauty through collaboration. In that way, it mirrors both community life and the divine.”
One of the most poignant moments in his time with the Choir was experiencing Credo by Margaret Bonds—a powerful musical setting of text by W.E.B. Du Bois. Gray recalls the performance as both haunting and hopeful. “It reminded me that choral music doesn’t just entertain—it can be a force for justice, empathy, and shared humanity.”
Leadership Rooted in Engagement
In addition to his pastoral duties, Rev. Lesesne brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership, strategic visioning, and community building. As a board member, he is passionate about deepening the Choir’s ties to the community, creating more access points for people of all backgrounds to experience the magic of live choral performance.
“The Choir is a cultural cornerstone,” he says. “It reflects the heartbeat of our city—diverse, dynamic, and constantly evolving. Our challenge and opportunity is to ensure this legacy remains vibrant and inclusive for future generations.”
Rev. Lesesne sees the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir’s future as one filled with promise—expanding educational outreach, embracing innovative collaborations, and reaching broader, more diverse audiences who may not traditionally engage with classical or choral music.
The Power of Resonance
When asked to describe the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir in just one word, Gray chooses “resonant” to capture the literal and symbolic essence of the Choir’s impact.
“It’s not just the sound that resonates—it’s the experience, the community, the message. That’s what makes the Choir such a powerful force in our city.”
As Rev. Lesesne continues to support the Choir’s mission, his presence on the board serves as a reminder that music—like faith, like service—has the power to unite and strengthen our community, and point us toward something greater.
