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GMC is proud to announce that we are launching Season 34 with a new approach to making music together. It's no secret that COVID-19 still has the arts world scrambling and trying to find itself amidst an ever-changing environment. GMC has kept busy all summer long, finding ways to engage our community and providing touch points for our members to share company and create beautiful music -- all while still respecting the rules of social distancing. It's been no easy feat -- but we've crossed the hurdles with an eye toward staying together, even if that means staying apart a little while longer. This season, we're switching things up again. First, our new rehearsal cycle launches on Monday September 14th. At that time, we'll be launching a new hybrid rehearsal program, blending the elements of a virtual rehearsal with those of an in-person (albeit heavily regulated) rehearsal. Rehearsals will be split into sections (lower voices and upper voices) for an hour each Monday night. Our virtual singers will call in via Zoom, from the comfort of their homes, offices, etc. For our in-person singers, we're limiting our numbers to 12 singers maximum, and ensuring that proper health standards are maintained -- including daily health screenings, proper distancing throughout rehearsal times, thorough cleaning of all equipment, and of course, everyone will be required to wear a mask throughout. We feel this structure will allow our singers to rehearse in the environment that best meets their health, safety, and musical needs, while helping GMC to create the music we're so well known for. We'll be working on some virtual choir videos to share with our audiences and before we know it, our holiday concert will be right around the corner. This concert will be broadcast over social media platforms and Zoom to allow our audiences to experience art from the comfort and safety of their homes, as well. So, now is the perfect time to join GMC, either was a new singer or as a singer returning from a short break. We have space for everyone, regardless of gender identity or expression, race, ethnicity, location economic status, or how "out" you are. We are your community, first and foremost, and our goal is to make GMC accessible to everyone. If you'd like more info on joining the Chorus, click HERE and we'll help answer any questions you may have. Best wishes and much love, Michael Franzoni Operations Director |
Our HistoryIn the fall of 1987, an advertisement ran in the Gay and Lesbian News Telegraph seeking men interested in forming St Louis’s first gay chorus. By the spring of 1988, the chorus had grown to 22 men and, under the direction of Michael Cohrs, presented its first concert -- One Voice. With the staging of 1969: A Remembrance of Stonewall, the Gateway Men’s Chorus presented its 90th major concert and concluded its 32nd Anniversary season.
Throughout our first 32 years, the Gateway Men’s Chorus has opened its stage to over 650 singers and performed over 1200 musical works. The chorus has commissioned a number of pieces through the years, including adaptations of poetry standards, Supreme Court speeches, and satirical works. Many of these works have since been performed by choruses throughout the country, carrying the legacy of GMC from coast-to-coast. And, in addition to appearing on stages around St. Louis, the chorus has performed in Kansas City, Denver, Atlanta, New Orleans, Miami, Montreal, San Jose, Tampa, and even once auditioned for America’s Got Talent! |
Our MissionThe mission of the Gateway Men’s Chorus is to affirm and promote gay culture and acceptance through excellence in musical performance and education. To fulfill its mission, the chorus annually presents a three-concert season, performing a breadth of work ranging from classical choral repertoire to Broadway classics, from holiday favorites to iconic LGBT choral anthems, and many of the songs that helped shape our lives. The organization continues to participate in a wide range of special events and community outreach activities throughout the region,including sporting events, Pride, and local fundraisers.
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Our VisionBy living our mission, the Gateway Men’s Chorus builds a future where no voice can be silenced – one that celebrates inclusion, amplifies the human spirit, and values the arts as essential to the human experience.
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Our ValuesThe Gateway Men’s Chorus abides by central values that govern how we both operate internally and engage externally with the community as a whole. We value:
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Annual Reports
31st Season Annual Report | 30th Season Annual Report | 29th Season Annual Report
28th Season Annual Report | 27th Season Annual Report | 26th Season Annual Report
28th Season Annual Report | 27th Season Annual Report | 26th Season Annual Report