Giving Girls A Voice!

Director of Development and Communications

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Hi, I’m Penny Hock, and I’m thrilled to be a part of such a creative and supportive environment! I bring a vast array of experience to GCA as a musician, entrepreneur, philanthropist, educator, criminal justice professional, and unintentional comedienne.

I hold a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice, an Associates in Pre-Law, and an educator's certificate, and I’m also a certified Event Planner and Service Professional.  

Outside of the office, I am avidly involved with the Grand Rapids Chorus of Sweet Adelines, which is an award winning women's barbershop chorus that's been in existence for 75 years. I also enjoy the company of my kitty, Gracie, who's feelings about me are seemingly not mutual. xo

Artistic Director

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Hi I'm Elizabeth!

As an experienced performer and director, I am dedicated to fostering creativity and collaboration in the arts. With a degree in Vocal Performance and extensive professional training in theater and dance, I have a strong foundation in performance that I bring to my work as a director and freelance producer. I have directed several productions in various genres and I am skilled in guiding actors, singers, and dancers to bring out their best performances. 

Beyond the spotlight, I am a dedicated performing arts educator. My extensive knowledge and experience in the performing arts provide a rich foundation for teaching the next generation of artists.  A vocal advocate on the importance of specialized support for neurodivergent people, Elizabeth has spoken at conferences and workshops for renowned voice teachers and arts professionals on the subject. 

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Elizabeth joins the GCA family beginning in the fall. They will be directing JA 1 and JA2. 

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Choral Director

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Hi I'm Alicia Diesch. I have lived life not just to a different beat—but as the drummer. With diverse passions and an unconventional path, my journey has taken me from professional musician to military service member; from combat veteran to mental health counselor; and from teaching yoga in Cleveland schools to now directing with the Girls Choral Academy. Along the way, I've embraced many roles and opportunities.

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I have presented workshops and performed nationally at music conferences including Sister Singers and GALA and currently, I divide my time among composing and arranging graded repertoire for choirs and concert bands, providing music for hospice care, advocating for children through CASA, and engaging with the local music scene.

I consider myself to be a sound healer, creating experiences that weave together movement, music, meditation, and breathwork. From time to time, I will contribute research papers on mental health by bringing insight from my rich and varied life experience.

Administrative Coordinator

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Hi, I’m Rita Sidhu, and I’m excited to join the GCA team ! I bring several years of experience supporting teams through organization, communication, and coordination. My background in HR has given me a strong foundation in managing schedules, handling confidential information, and keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes. I also enjoy mentoring and coaching others—helping people grow in their roles has always been a meaningful part of my work.

I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Law and a Bachelor’s degree in Politics and History, and I’m also a certified coach through the Coach Training Alliance. 

Outside of the office, I love to cook, work on my ever-growing garden project, and taking long hikes with my dog.

Choral Director

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Hi I'm Kristen Moss and I'm a Grand Rapids native and passionate Human Developer with a trauma-informed advocacy background. Formerly a Youth Coordinator with the YMCA, I have a passion for youth development, diversity issues, and family and community engagement,  utilizing my expertise as a Team Lead with the Kent School Services Network, servicing Kentwood Public Schools and spreading compassion through music and ministry.  As such, I am no stranger to community development that centers around the voice of youth. 

I studied vocal performance at Grand Rapids Community College and received a Bachelor of Science in Ministry Leadership. I am a vocalist and creative musician and love doing work with the Grand Rapids Opera, Civic Theater, Circle Theater, and Actor’s Theater where some of my notable performances include songs from "The Wiz" and "The Color Purple."

I am honored to continue to serve the community and spread the gift of music with Girls Choral Academy.​

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Accompanist

Hi I'm John Conway. I began playing the piano in my early teens, spending 20 minutes a day on the prescribed lesson material and another 2 hours in Elton John and Billy Joel songbooks! 

I spent several years playing in more than a few bands and decided to give musical theater a try and found myself in the pit with so many incredible musicians. This enterprising spirit garnered many amazing travel experiences while playing for shows and saw many great places such as Western Europe, the Baltics, the Far East, NYC and Alaska.

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My proudest moments include playing first keyboard for San Jose's production of Children of Eden and the world premiere of future Tony winning musical, "Memphis" at North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly, MA. Less proud moments include playing for west coast department stores in the men's suits and furnishings foyer. 

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I'm love playing for GCA and watching these amazing little girls grow, and grow, and grow!