New York City Gay Men's Chorus

== New York City Gay Men's Chorus == The '''New York City Gay Men's Chorus''' (NYCGMC) is a world-renowned LGBTQ+ and gay-friendly chorus based in New York City. Founded in 1979, the chorus has been a beacon of artistry and advocacy, using the power of music to inspire change and foster understanding within the community and beyond. === History === The NYCGMC's journey began in 1979 when eighty men gathered at Washington Square United Methodist Church for the first rehearsal. A year later, the newly formed chorus performed at a community memorial service for two men killed in a drive-by shooting at the Ramrod Bar in Chelsea, marking the start of their public engagement in critical community issues. Their debut holiday concert in December 1980 at the Cooper Union was met with sustained cheers and standing ovations, affirming their collective voice's impact. In 1981, NYCGMC made its Carnegie Hall debut, becoming the first openly gay musical organization to perform in the prestigious venue. This milestone was followed by a series of significant events, including becoming one of the founding members of the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA) in 1982/83 and hosting the first GALA Choruses Festival in New York City. The chorus faced and overcame discrimination in 1984 when the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) initially attempted to prevent them from performing due to their name. After litigation, the ACDA reversed its policy, marking a victory for the chorus and the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, NYCGMC continued to perform at high-profile events and engage in advocacy, particularly in response to the HIV/AIDS crisis. They embarked on European tours, presented sold-out concerts, and participated in GALA Choruses Festivals, growing in both size and influence. In the 2000s, the chorus expanded its outreach through the Youth Pride Chorus and the Connect Program, bringing music to diverse audiences across New York City. NYCGMC also made appearances in popular media, including the HBO movie "The Normal Heart." The chorus commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising and their own 40th anniversary in 2019 with the concert performance "QUIET NO MORE" at Carnegie Hall, featuring a new choral music suite co-commissioned by NYCGMC and the Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021, NYCGMC suspended their 40th season and shifted to virtual performances, maintaining their presence and support for the community during challenging times. In 2022, NYCGMC returned to in-person auditions, rehearsals, and performances, welcoming a significant number of new members and performing at various city events, including a tribute to Angela Lansbury at the 75th Tony Awards. === Mission and Impact === NYCGMC's mission is to create a world that accepts and values its LGBTQ+ members through the transformative power of music. With a history of activism and community engagement, the chorus has been a vital part of the movement for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. Their performances are not only a celebration of diversity and talent but also a powerful statement of resilience and solidarity. The chorus continues to grow, welcoming new members and leadership, and remains committed to fostering an inclusive community through song, advocacy, and education. === External Links === For more information about the New York City Gay Men's Chorus, including a complete list of past seasons and updates on events and concerts, please visit their official website or their page on Wikipedia. Alumni and supporters can connect through the NYCGMC Alumni Association on Facebook.