Our History

The Zion Conservatory of Music was established in 1906 by Wilbur Glenn Voliva, the second General Overseer of Christ Community Church (CCC). At that time, the church—then known as the Christian Catholic Church (“Catholic” in the sense of universal)—was central not only to the spiritual life of the community but to the life of the city of Zion itself. Voliva succeeded John Alexander Dowie, who founded Zion in 1901. While both leaders held views that are not representative of the church today, they also established a remarkable and enduring tradition of music education.

In its early years, conservatory instruction was both free and required. Music was considered an essential part of the Christian life, and participation was widespread. Students progressed through the program and into CCC’s large choir, orchestra, and band, contributing to a vibrant culture of performance. Many also provided live music for Zion’s nationally recognized passion play and for the church’s radio station—often cited as one of the first Christian music radio stations in the United States.

Since that time, thousands of students have studied at the Zion Conservatory of Music. Today, the conservatory continues to build on that legacy through a faculty committed to thoughtful instruction, meaningful performance opportunities, and the development of musical skill for life.