December 12, 1981
History
The Windy City Gay Chorus (WCGC) is participating in its third holiday celebration. The chorus grew out of a dream of Jerry Carlson (now director of the LA Gay Men’s Chorus) and our founding director, Richard Garrin. The first meeting took place on October 9, 1979. Three years later, the group numbers 72 with ten of the original members still participating.
Membership is by audition and every year each member must have a vocal review. Although several of the singers have musical backgrounds and training, the majority are not professional musicians. Accountants, lawyers, teachers, doctors, scientists, cooks, artists, designers, and one token hairdresser (we are gay, you know) will be singing for you tonight. Everyone performing, the conductor, pianist, and all singers, volunteers his or her time and talents.
The Windy City Slickers, 17 members of the full chorus, perform lighter pieces. Their songs include close harmony and choreography. Membership in the Slickers requires a vocal and a movement audition.
Since its beginning, the chorus has sung at many functions here in Chicago as well as in Indiana and Wisconsin. On February 14, 1982, the WCGC will make its New York debut at Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center in a combined concert with the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus. Chicagoans will have an opportunity to preview the Chicago portion of the concert on January 23, 1982.
Windy City Performing Arts 