December 13, 1980
The Windy City Gay Chorus is proud to celebrate the first anniversary of its debut with tonight’s concert. The inception of the chorus grew out of a dream under its founder, Jerry Carlson, who, along with its founding director, Richard Garrin and the help of Nick Kelly brought this dream to a reality. On October 9th, 1979, a group of approximately 60 people gathered in the basement of MCC on Wellington Avenue to commence what is now the well recognized Windy City Gay Chorus. Although only 19 charter members remain out of all those you’ll hear tonight, in one year the chorus has grown to organizational and musical heights not usually expected of such an infant group. Its members range from master of music degrees to a simple desire to sing with gay brothers and sisters. Members are accepted by audition and are subject to annual review. So as to appeal to all tastes of the community, the chorus is expected to sing music from Renaissance to modern styles. In addition to its own concerts, the chorus is available for appearances throughout the community. Questions concerning new member auditions (Jan. 6th, 1981) or appearances should be directed to our manager via our hotline/answering machine at 472- 1600.
We are proud to be a vital part of the national movement of gay / lesbian choruses and the WCGC will be the first to host a weekend conference of these choral directors and their managers next spring to discuss the possibility of a national choral festival. What an exciting adventure of unity and recognition of the gay communities through song.
Windy City Performing Arts 