The lights dim in the theater. The conductor/artistic director makes his way to the podium followed by over 90 men dressed in tuxedos; each wearing a lavender colored tie, and a red & purple ribbon on their lapel. Suddenly the theater is transformed into a place of rousing musical celebration as this chorus begins to sing and dance. Then, before anyone realizes, the final notes are sung. The audience, almost on cue, rises to their feet with applause and shouts of joy as the concert has concluded.
For nearly 25 years, this has been the norm for the Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC); an ensemble created to provide gay men a safe venue by which they can sing and perform without fear of ridicule or persecution. However, within these 25 years, this ensemble has gone from simply being a small gay chorus to being recognized as one the best choral groups in America. And with that success, the ensemble has grown to include all men – regardless of their sexual orientation.
Yes, CGMC is regarded in the choral world as one of the best. What’s even more amazing is that this chorus is a non-audition ensemble; the only requirements being that you want to sing, and are dedicated to the rehearsal and performance demands that come with being a member. Amongst comparable choruses, that’s almost unheard of.
What has given CGMC its reputation is a style of show and performance that resembles a show choir; a vast variety of music coupled with dance that creates something few other groups dare to attempt. Think of it as GLEE grown up.
Illuminati singing:
The ensemble:
As CGMC has grown through the years, it has created two smaller ensembles, each with its own niches: Vox – a group of CGMC’s top performers – produces one yearly show of its own, is featured in all CGMC productions, and performs at other special events. The other is Illuminati; an ensemble that performs sacred music at various churches throughout the greater Columbus area. Amongst other LGBT choruses, this was the first group of its kind.
The success and growth of the chorus has brought a notoriety that has inspired both the gay and straight communities to become more involved. Professional men and woman serve on its Board of Directors. More and more patrons of the arts are financially supporting; and audiences continue to grow.
However, the most important aspect of the Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus is its mission and vision: Voices Raised – Lives Changed. This is not simply a motto; it is the core value that has allowed CGMC to expand its presence into other communities traditionally less tolerant or accepting. It has also allowed the group to create partnerships with other artistic organizations, which in turn has given the chorus an even greater avenue for outreach and education.
That is who we are; the Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus. We raise our voices to the world, and do our part to changes lives…all through the power of music.
Photos courtesy CGMC. For more about the Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus, visit CGMC.com.
GCAC Presents is a bi-weekly column brought to you by the Greater Columbus Arts Council – supporting art and advancing culture in Columbus – in partnership with the Columbus Arts Marketing Association, a professional development and networking association of arts marketers. Each column will be written by a different local arts organization to give you an insiders look at the arts in Columbus.
