The Orange County Classic Choral Society began informally in the Summer of 1959 when Reverend Samuel Reinke, pastor of the Blooming Grove Congregational Church invited singers from the community to join in the performance of Handel’s Messiah in celebration of the church's 200th anniversary. The conductor was Larry Newland from West Point, and the accompanist was Janet Nelson. Everyone enjoyed the experience so much that it was decided the group would gather together to perform another work the next summer.

When the time came to meet again, it was learned that Larry Newland would not be available to conduct the group - now officially known as the Classic Choral Society. Walter Latzko took over the position. Latzko is well known for his musical career, including his work as a writer for the Arthur Godfrey Radio Show. After several summers, the group wanted to continue through the school year, and so it did. However, after a number of years some members, including the conductor, felt they needed a break. It was decided to rehearse and perform only during the school year (that schedule continued until 2002 when the summer season was reinstated). In 1991 Walter Latzko was forced to retire as conductor and director due to illness. He selected CCS member Janiece Kohler to become the Society's third conductor and music director. Janiece is the Director of Music at the First Presbyterian Church in Washingtonville, and Minister of Music at the Blooming Grove United Church of Christ as well as founder and director of the Halcyon Ensemble and the Halcyon Singers. Ms. Kohler selected Dr. Margaret Barton Small to assist her as the Society's accompanist.