SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL SEASON OF NEW ARTISTIC DIRECTOR JACOB STENSBERG

Season 45 to include the return of SFGMC’s much-anticipated annual holiday tradition; Disney PRIDE in Concert, featuring classic and contemporary songs from the Disney songbook; and Hello Yellow Brick Road, featuring songs from Elton John, The Wizard of Oz, Wicked, The Wiz, and more!

SAN FRANCISCO (September 20, 2022)—Today, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) announced the three-concert lineup that makes up the inaugural season of new Artistic Director Jacob Stensberg. Featuring over 250 singers of the chorus, Season 45 kicks off with the return of SFGMC’s annual holiday tradition, Holiday Spectacular. In March 2023, SFGMC returns to Davies Symphony Hall for Disney PRIDE in Concert, featuring over 40 classic and contemporary songs from the Disney songbook. The season concludes in June 2023 with Hello Yellow Brick Road, featuring favorites from Elton John, The Wizard of Oz, Wicked, The Wiz, and more.

Conductor’s Society memberships (starting at donations of $120 or more) are available now at sfgmc.org/conductors-society. Member benefits include pre-sale opportunities, discounts, event invitations, and more. Single tickets will be available at a later date.

“We are beyond excited to present the inaugural season of new Artistic Director, Jacob Stensberg,” said SFGMC Chief Executive Officer Chris Verdugo. “Jake has carefully curated a season that embodies joy, magic, and a sense of the what’s to come for SFGMC as we follow our friends down the yellow brick road. At its heart, this season is about community, connection, and celebration.”  

“Season 45 is a series of compelling, creative, expressive, and exciting performances that I am so excited to share with the community,” adds SFGMC Artistic Director Jacob Stensberg. “We kick off with our Holiday Spectacular, which is as emotionally gripping as it is fun and fabulous. We will mount Disney PRIDE in Concert at Davies Symphony Hall in March. This show features over 40 of your favorite songs from the Disney songbook as well as captivating story lines from our own Chorus membership. We wrap up the season with Hello Yellow Brick Road, a celebration of all things Wizard of Oz, The Wiz, Wicked, and of course, the Elton John songbook. We look forward to sharing our passion for music and our love for one another: these components have gotten us through 45 years of incredible history, and will be the building blocks of our "yellow brick road" that we use to guide us through the next 45 years.”

This December, SFGMC rings in the holiday season with its much-anticipated annual tradition, Holiday Spectacular. The music will be joyous, the costumes will be fabulous, and the dancing and special surprises will be thrilling. Audiences can expect the entertaining flair, fun, and heart that the Chorus always delivers. There will be holiday favorites, including Jingle Bells and I’ll Be Home for Christmas, classical choral works—including Sure on this Shining Night, and unexpected originals, including a holiday-themed Cher medley!

The Chorus also heralds new traditions with the world premiere performance of “Snow” by Ryan Garrett, winner of SFGMC’s inaugural Composition Competition. This new annual songwriting competition was designed to uplift local art and artists and inspire the creation of fresh new repertoire for the winter season. Each year, SFGMC will hold a call for entries encouraging composers to pen new seasonal TTBB works, accessible to Gay Men’s Choruses and TTBB choruses around the globe.

Says Stensberg: “The way in which Ryan evokes an emotional response to Walter de la Mare’s poetry through soaring melodies and lush harmonies makes him (and his music!) the perfect winner for our inaugural composition competition. We look forward to performing the world premiere in our Holiday Spectacular this December.”

Holiday Spectacular will take place on Friday, December 2 and Saturday, December 3, 2022 at San Francisco’s Sydney Goldstein Theater; Sunday, December 11, 2022 at Berkeley’s Freight & Salvage; and Saturday, December 17, 2022 at Rohnert Park’s Green Music Center.

SFGMC’s annual Holiday Spectacular: Home for the Holidays returns to San Francisco’s iconic Castro Theatre for three performances on Saturday, December 24. On Christmas Eve 1990, the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus gathered at the Castro Theatre to bring seasonal cheer to those who had no home to go to. Now in its 33rd year, Home for the Holidays has grown into a holiday tradition where families—both biological and chosen—gather for a night of joyous music and heartwarming festivities! 

In the spring, get ready for hit songs from The Lion King, Aladdin, Peter Pan, Cinderella, Beauty & the Beast, Mulan, Hercules, Coco and so many more in our extraordinary spring production, Disney PRIDE in Concert. Disney has been dazzling audiences for 100 years—and SFGMC is proud to celebrate our 45th anniversary with some of the most-loved music in the world: the Disney songbook. Returning to Davies Symphony Hall, this two-act spectacular—featuring the 250-member of the chorus and a 25-piece orchestra—combines over 40 classic and contemporary Disney songs with unique storylines that come directly from SFGMC chorus members. Disney PRIDE in Concert will be held on Thursday, March 16 and Friday, March 17, 2023.

Closing out the season, SFGMC will present Hello Yellow Brick Road, a wild and wonderful celebration of not just how far we’ve come, but for all the dreams we’ve yet to achieve. The concert combines highlights from Elton John’s groundbreaking album, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, marking its 50th anniversary, along with favorites from The Wizard of Oz, The Wiz, and Stephen Schwartz’s blockbuster musical - Wicked. This concert will support the Elton John AIDS Foundation, celebrating their 30th anniversary in their effort to end the AIDS epidemic. Hello Yellow Brick Roadwill take place on Friday, June 16 and Saturday, June 17, 2023 at the Sydney Goldstein Theater.

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About SFGMC

Founded in 1978, SFGMC sparked a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement after its first public performance at a vigil on the steps of City Hall following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. Since then, SFGMC has been embedded in the fabric of San Francisco. It has soothed souls in pain, lifted spirits in triumph, and has remained a steadfast beacon of hope.

Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Chris Verdugo and Artistic Director Jacob Stensberg, SFGMC has established a heightened level of performance standards bringing renewed audience and choral industry acclaim. Recent touring schedules, recordings, and outreach programs have broadened its impact and reputation in the community while maintaining its signature blend of humor, personality and ground-breaking performances. In 2019, SFGMC acquired a historic facility that has become its permanent home for rehearsals and offices. The building also serves as The Chan National Queer Arts Center, the first-ever community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations.

For more information on SFGMC, visit www.sfgmc.org

Visit SFGMC TV: www.sfgmc.org/sfgmctv

SFGMC Archive contact: archive@sfgmc.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfgmc

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sfgmc

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sfgmc

YouTube: www.youtube.com/sfgmcvideo

BROADWAY RECORDS ANNOUNCES SONGS OF THE PHOENIX, THE NEW SONG CYCLE FROM SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS, CURATED BY ANDREW LIPPA, AVAILABLE DIGITALLY TODAY.

(New York, NY ) Just in time to celebrate Pride weekend! The live recording of Songs of the Phoenix, will be available everywhere, digitally, Friday, June 24th. Songs of  the Phoenix features music by composers and lyricists Ty  Defoe, Alexandra Elle, Siedah Garrett, Joriah Kwame, Daniel Lazour, Patrick Lazour, Melissa Li, Andrew Lippa, Ingrid Michaelson, Stephen Schwartz, Stephen Sondheim, Diana Syrse, and Kit Yan. Songs of the Phoenix was commissioned by The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus and co-comissioned by Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus; Austin Gay Men’s Chorus; Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles; Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida; Heartland Men’s Chorus; New York City Gay Men’s Chorus; North Coast Men’s Chorus; One Voice Chorus of Charlotte, NC; Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus; Portland Gay Men’s Chorus; Windy City Gay Men’s Chorus & Treble Quire. The album was recorded live on April 10th, 2022. 

About Songs of the Phoenix: In the early days of the pandemic, Tim Seelig and Andrew Lippa began conversations about completing a trilogy of works created by Andrew for the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. The first two were “I Am Harvey Milk” (2013) and “Unbreakable” (2018). Both had words and music by Andrew. This time, Andrew offered to curate a work that might address the myriad challenges facing our nation during the pandemic. Andrew envisioned a large work created by as diverse a group of librettists and composers as possible. Two years, later, Songs of the Phoenix was birthed with the world premiere on April 10 at Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco. 

Songs of the Phoenix features narration written by Josh Wilder and Carson Grace Becker and performed by Rodney Earl Jackson, Jr and Cheri Miller. Orchestrations by Peter Seibert and vocal arrangements by Dave Volpe and curation by Andrew Lippa. The album is produced by Leslie Ann Jones. The album is also produced by Dr. Timothy Seelig and Andrew Lippa with engineering by Dann Thompson and Leslie Ann Jones. Denise Woodward and Nick Abreu as recording engineers with edits by Leslie Ann Jones, Robert Gatley and Dann Thompson. The recording has been mixed by Leslie Ann Jones at Skywalker Sound, a Lucasfilm Ltd. Company with assistant mixing by Dann Thompson. Mastered by Michael Romanowski of Coast Mastering. The album was recorded live at the San Francisco War Memorial and Performing Arts Center, Louise M Davies Symphony Hall.

The orchestra is conducted by Dr. Timothy Seelig, and features Nicolas Perez on piano, Aaron Shaul on bass, Matthew Wrobel on bass, Juan Carreon on drums, Fred Morgan on percussion, Peter Seibert on keyboard, Yuri Kye on violin, Andrés Vera on cello, Tom Regouski on reeds. Dave Volpe created the TTBB arrangements and William Southerland created SATB vocal arrangements. 

Song List: 

1. PRELUDE 1 /THE LIFE CYCLE OF A STAR (ADAGIO) (Music by Andrew Lippa, Narration by Josh Wilder) 2. WE RISE (Music and Lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson) 

3. WHO AM I? (Music by Melissa Li, Lyrics by Kit Yan and Melissa Li) 

4. WE ARE THE TREES (Music and Lyrics by Ty Defoe Speaker:Landa Lakes) 

5. MOTHER DEAR (Music by Andrew Lippa, Lyrics by Siedah Garrett) 

6. PRELUDE 2 / INVISIBLE GRIDS (Music by Andrew Lippa, Narration by Carson Grace Becker) 7. SONG OF TOMORROW (Music and Lyrics by Joriah Kwamé) 

8. MÚSICA Y SABORES (Music and Lyrics by Diana Syrse) 

9. PRAYER (Music and Lyrics by The Lazours) 

10. PRELUDE 3 / WAVE (Music by Andrew Lippa, Narration by Josh Wilder) 

11. FLAG SONG (Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim) 

12. BLOOM (Music by Stephen Schwartz, Lyrics by Alexandra Elle) 

13. PRELUDE 4 / FIN (Music by Andrew Lippa, Narration by Josh Wilder) 

14. SONG OF THE PHOENIX (Music and Lyrics by Andrew Lippa)

DOWNLOAD YOUR COPY HERE: https://www.broadwayrecords.com/products/songs-of-the-phoenix-san-francisco-gay-mens-chorus-mp3

MORE ABOUT BROADWAY RECORDS: 

Broadway Records is the leading, Grammy® winning record label dedicated to releasing the most popular and current Broadway cast recordings, as well as preserving legacy musical theatre and theatre vocalists' repertoire. Under the leadership of Broadway Records' president and founder Van Dean, recent releases include: the New Off-Broadway Cast Recording of ASSASSINS, the New Broadway Cast Recording of Caroline, Or Change, If The Fates Allow: The Hadestown Holiday Album, Grammy® Nominated Burt Bacharach & Stephen Sater's Some Lovers, Grammy® Nominated Stephen Schwartz's Snapshots, The Lehman Trilogy, Randy Rainbow's A Little Brains, A Little Talent, Legacy: Two Song Cycles by Ahrens and Flaherty, the Grammy® and Tony Award-winning revival of The Color Purple, the Tony Award® winning and Grammy® nominated revival of Once On This Island, the Grammy® nominated Matilda The Musical, Fiddler on the Roof (2015 revival) and My Fair Lady (2018 revival), Anastasia, Bandstand, Groundhog Day, The Lightning Thief and NBC's television events, "The Wiz Live!" and "Peter Pan Live!" as well as solo albums from Patti LuPone, Lea Salonga, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Jessica Vosk, Kyle Taylor Parker, and many more. The label's critically-acclaimed "Live at Feinstein's/54 Below" series features top Broadway stars including Aaron Tveit, Annaleigh Ashford, Norbert Leo Butz, Sierra Boggess, Laura Benanti, Robbie Rozelle, Adam Pascal & Anthony Rapp, Micky Dolenz, and many others. Broadway Records philanthropic endeavors also include the "Broadway For Orlando: What The World Needs Now is Love", "We Are The World" by Broadway United and "Broadway Kids Against Bullying: I Have a Voice" music videos and From Broadway With Love benefit concerts for Sandy Hook, Orlando (Emmy Award for Sound) and Parkland. www.BroadwayRecords.com 

GET SOCIAL WITH BROADWAY RECORDS: Facebook.com/BwayRecords TikTok/Twitter/Instagram: @BwayRecords

About SFGMC

Founded in 1978, SFGMC sparked a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement after its first public performance at a vigil on the steps of City Hall following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. Since then, SFGMC has been embedded in the fabric of San Francisco. It has soothed souls in pain, lifted spirits in triumph, and has remained a steadfast beacon of hope.

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig, SFGMC has established a heightened level of performance standards bringing renewed audience and choral industry acclaim. Recent touring schedules, recordings, and outreach programs have broadened its impact and reputation in the community while maintaining its signature blend of humor, personality and ground-breaking performances. In 2019, SFGMC acquired a historic facility that has become its permanent home for rehearsals and offices. The building also serves as The Chan National Queer Arts Center, the first-ever community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations.

For more information on SFGMC, visit www.sfgmc.org

Visit SFGMC TV: www.sfgmc.org/sfgmctv

SFGMC Archive contact: archive@sfgmc.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfgmc

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sfgmc

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sfgmc

YouTube: www.youtube.com/sfgmcvideo

SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS PRESENTS FINAL WORDS

This one-night-only farewell concert celebrates the historic legacy of

Dr. Timothy Seelig as he conducts his final concert as Artistic Director of SFGMC

Joined by the San Francisco Symphony for the first time in SFGMC’s 43-year history, special guests also include the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir

Davies Symphony Hall

Wednesday, July 13 • 7:30 p.m.

SAN FRANCISCO (May 24, 2022)—Today, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) announced the program for Final Words, a one-night-only farewell concert for Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig, taking place Wednesday, July 13 at 7:30 p.m. at San Francisco’s Davies Symphony Hall (201 Van Ness Ave.) Tickets are on-sale now by visiting SFGMC.org or by calling 415-864-6000.

Final Words will celebrate the spectacular legacy of Dr. Timothy Seelig as Artistic Director as he conducts his final concert as Artistic Director of SFGMC. This extraordinary evening will feature a deeply personal playlist curated by Seelig highlighting the past 11.5 years of his artistic influence. Making this historic moment even more special, San Francisco Symphony will join SFGMC on-stage for the first time in the chorus’ 43-year history. Works include selections from Unbreakable and I Am Harvey Milk by Andrew Lippa, A Chorus Line, The Lion King, Tyler’s Suite, and more. Special guests include the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir.

“Final Words is the culmination of a career dedicated to not only music education and choral conducting, but to community-building, activism, and social justice ” said SFGMC Executive Director Chris Verdugo. “We are deeply grateful for Tim’s service and dedication to the chorus and community at large. His immense impact will be felt for decades to come. We look forward to celebrating him and his incredible achievements on July 13.”

“It is a rare moment in time when a conductor is allowed to create a program that is made up 100% of his favorite pieces,” adds Seelig. “This is exactly what I am being blessed with as I end 11 ½ years with SFGMC and 35 years conducting LGBTQ+ choruses around the world. I had help in the selection process to be sure, but the final program couldn't reflect my career any better.“

Considered one of the nation’s most prolific choral directors, Seelig’s 11 ½ seasons at San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus is marked by several distinguished milestones, including the Lavender Pen Tour, the groundbreaking tour that took the chorus through five southern states in the fall of 2017; the subsequent release of “Gay Chorus Deep South,” the award-winning documentary chronicling the Lavender Pen Tour; the creation of the Artist Portal at San Francisco’s National AIDS Memorial Grove; the purchase of 170 Valencia, the new home of San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus and The Chan National Queer Arts Center; the launch of RHYTHM, SFGMC’s educational outreach program to youth that has stretched nationwide; and more.

Throughout his leadership, Seelig forged intimate and important working collaborations with distinguished composers and musicians which have resulted in six major commissioned pieces of works. They include “Testimony” by Stephen Schwartz, “I Am Harvey Milk” by Andrew Lippa; “Tyler’s Suite,” featuring the work of nine celebrated composers including Jake Heggie, Ann Hampton Callaway, John Corigliano, Stephen Flaherty, and more; “#twitterlieder” by James Eakin; “Unbreakable” by Andrew Lippa; “@queerz” by Julian Hornik; and the upcoming “Songs of the Phoenix.” Many of these works have since been performed by other choral ensembles around the world.

Final Words is sponsored in part by The Terrence D. Chan Foundation.

About SFGMC

Founded in 1978, SFGMC sparked a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement after its first public performance at a vigil on the steps of City Hall following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. Since then, SFGMC has been embedded in the fabric of San Francisco. It has soothed souls in pain, lifted spirits in triumph, and has remained a steadfast beacon of hope.

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig, SFGMC has established a heightened level of performance standards bringing renewed audience and choral industry acclaim. Recent touring schedules, recordings, and outreach programs have broadened its impact and reputation in the community while maintaining its signature blend of humor, personality and ground-breaking performances. In 2019, SFGMC acquired a historic facility that has become its permanent home for rehearsals and offices. The building also serves as The Chan National Queer Arts Center, the first-ever community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations.

For more information on SFGMC, visit www.sfgmc.org

Visit SFGMC TV: www.sfgmc.org/sfgmctv

SFGMC Archive contact: archive@sfgmc.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfgmc

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sfgmc

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sfgmc

YouTube: www.youtube.com/sfgmcvideo

JACOB STENSBERG NAMED ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS

SAN FRANCISCO (April 19, 2022)—Following an extensive nationwide search, San Francisco Gay Men’s  Chorus (SFGMC) Executive Director Chris Verdugo and Board of Directors Chair Glenn DeSandre today  announced the appointment of Jacob Stensberg as the new Artistic Director of San Francisco’s premier choral organization. Stensberg succeeds Dr. Timothy Seelig who will retire at the conclusion of SFGMC’s  Season 44 in July 2022.  

Jacob Stensberg joins San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus from Purdue University’s vocal music department, where he served as Assistant Director of the Purduettes and University Choir, and Director of the Chamber Choir, All-Campus and Community Chorale, and the PMO  Kids Choir.  

“We set out to find an artistic leader who could build on the monumental accomplishments and artistic excellence Dr. Tim Seelig has helped San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus achieve,” said Verdugo. “We are extremely fortunate to attract someone with Jacob’s deep knowledge of vocal arts and musical theater, and proven commitment to his community. His enthusiasm and exuberance are contagious. I look forward to introducing him to the San Francisco Bay Area.”

"On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am delighted to welcome Jacob Stensberg as SFGMC's next Artistic  Director," adds DeSandre. "His passionate commitment to social justice, advocacy, and the amplification of  marginalized voices coupled with his creative artistic vision and choral pedagogy make him the ideal  candidate to lead SFGMC into the future." 

Says Stensberg: “It’s easy to identify Dr. Seelig’s legacy through metrics, like increased GALA chorus visibility,  organizational growth, and musical excellence, but it’s impossible to ignore what I see as the central tenet for all of his many accomplishments: love. When love is the foundation on which we build our gathering place, when it’s our ‘why’—there is no dream too big, no burden too heavy, no room too crowded, no story too small. While Tim is truly an inimitable man who can never be replaced, his legacy of love is one I look forward to continuing. The future of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus is bright, and I am prepared to lead  the organization in our next chapter together.”

Adds William Griffel, Director of Purdue Musical Organizations: “Jacob Stensberg made an immediate impact on our program at Purdue Musical Organizations when he arrived on campus with his visionary programming, innovative choral pedagogy, and his infectious zeal for positive interactions with everyone he meets. I am so proud to call him a friend and colleague and I look forward to seeing Jacob thrive in this new  chapter of his career!” 

Originally from Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, Stensberg received his Bachelor of Music Education in Vocal  Music at Carroll University and went on to receive his Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Butler  University. Since then, he has been recognized with numerous awards and grants for his leadership in conducting, program development, and intercultural competency and research.  

Prior to his role at Purdue University, Jacob served the Indianapolis community through his musical direction of professional theater productions, including The Rocky Horror Show, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, and  Disney’s Hunchback of Notre Dame. At Purdue University, he has been instrumental in amplifying marginalized voices and has been a leader of Purdue’s diversity and inclusion initiatives.  

Most recently, Jacob conducted research on the way cultural music is shared and its direct impact on  complex tasks like empathy, curiosity, and openness. He shared his findings at the American Choral Directors  Association Conference in Chicago in February 2022.  

The Artistic Director Search Committee was designed to represent the diversity of SFGMC’s membership, Board of Directors, and community. Led by co-chairs Paul Saccone (Singing Member) and Maren Amdal(Community Member), the committee included (in alphabetical order) Ashtyn Avella (Singing Member), Miguel Bustos (Singing Member), Terrence Chan (Founding/Community Member), Janet Cluff (Community Member), Glenn DeSandre, (SFGMC Board Chair), Steve Gallagher (Singing Member), Michelle Jacques (SFGMC Board of Directors), Thomas Kennard (Singing Member), Vinney Le (Singing Member), Tom Paulino (SFGMC Member President), Louis Rogers (Singing Member), Michael Tate (Singing Member), Steve Valdez (Singing Member), and Chris Verdugo (SFGMC Executive Director).

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About SFGMC

Founded in 1978, SFGMC sparked a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement after its first public performance at a vigil on the steps of City Hall following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. Since then SFGMC has been embedded in the fabric of San Francisco. It has soothed souls in pain, lifted spirits in triumph, and has remained a steadfast beacon of hope.

 Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig, SFGMC has established a heightened level of performance standards bringing renewed audience and choral industry acclaim. Recent touring schedules, recordings, and outreach programs have broadened its impact and reputation in the community while maintaining its signature blend of humor, personality and ground-breaking performances. In 2019, SFGMC acquired a historic facility that has become its permanent home for rehearsals and offices. The building also serves as the first-ever National LGBTQ Center for the Arts, a community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations.

For more information on SFGMC, visit www.sfgmc.org

SFGMC Archive contact: archive@sfgmc.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfgmc

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sfgmc

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sfgmc

YouTube: www.youtube.com/sfgmcvideo

SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS PRESENTS 16TH ANNUAL CRESCENDO

ANNUAL BENEFIT TO HONOR TONY AWARD WINNER BD WONG,
SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS ARTISTIC DIRECTOR DR. TIMOTHY SEELIG, AMAZON, AND CALIFORNIA LEGISLATIVE LGBTQ CAUCUS

*** FRIDAY, APRIL 8 AT 6 P.M. ***

SAN FRANCISCO (February 15, 2022)—Today, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig and Executive Director Chris Verdugo announced Crescendo, SFGMC’s annual benefit honoring extraordinary individuals and organizations who tirelessly champion and promote LGBTQ+ equality. This year, Crescendo returns to a live, in-person event, taking place on Friday, April 8 at 6 p.m. at San Francisco’s Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco (757 Market St.). Funds raised at this year’s benefit will help sustain SFGMC’s performances and programs.

“After two years of hosting Crescendo virtually, we are thrilled to gather in-person to raise crucial funds for SFGMC,” said Verdugo. “This year, we honor two extraordinay artists and activists, a transformative political body and a forward-looking corporate partner, all who have made significant contributions to the LGBTQ+ community and who align with SFGMC’s mission to build community, inspire activism, and foster compassion. 

Four prestigious awards will be presented that evening—Tony Award winner BD Wong will be honored with the Vanguard Award; Dr. Timothy Seelig will be awarded with the Lifetime Achievement Award; Amazon will be awarded with the Corporate Champion Award; and California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus will be awarded with the Trailblazer Award. 

The benefit will include an exclusive preview of SFGMC’s April 10 concert, Voices Rising, featuring members of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. Also performing will be Academy Award and Grammy Award-winning composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz and SFGMC’s vocal ensembles—HomoPhonics and The Lollipop Guild. 

Crescendo will also feature the return of the exciting live auction where guests can bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences and packages. In addition, a virtual silent auction will be available to attendees and SFGMC fans. To donate an auction item, visit sfgmc.org/crescendo-2022.

Tickets for Crescendo range in price from $350 for regular tickets to $500 for Premium tickets, which includes access to the cocktail reception, seated dinner and show, and a dessert reception. Sponsorships begin at $3,500. To purchase tickets, visit sfgmc.org/crescendo-2022. 

Co-chaired by Denise Geschke, Selina Sun, and Michael Tate, the Crescendo planning committee includes Table Captain Champion Gregory Marks and Auction Chair Mike Bernard.

Crescendo sponsors include Platinum Sponsors: Amazon, Chansell Capital Properties, Mikkel Svane; Ruby Sponsor: John and Denise Geschke; Gold Sponsors: Rebecca and Cal Henderson, UserTesting, Zendesk; Silver Sponsors: AT&T, Janet Cluff, David Laudon and Randy Laroche, George Trapp; Bronze Sponsor: Tito's Handmade Vodka; and Wine Partner: Rodney Strong Vineyards

About SFGMC

Founded in 1978, SFGMC sparked a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement after its first public performance at a vigil on the steps of City Hall following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. Since then SFGMC has been embedded in the fabric of San Francisco. It has soothed souls in pain, lifted spirits in triumph, and has remained a steadfast beacon of hope.

 Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig, SFGMC has established a heightened level of performance standards bringing renewed audience and choral industry acclaim. Recent touring schedules, recordings, and outreach programs have broadened its impact and reputation in the community while maintaining its signature blend of humor, personality and ground-breaking performances. In 2019, SFGMC acquired a historic facility that has become its permanent home for rehearsals and offices. The building also serves as the first-ever National LGBTQ Center for the Arts, a community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations.

For more information on SFGMC, visit www.sfgmc.org

SFGMC Archive contact: archive@sfgmc.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfgmc

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sfgmc

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sfgmc

YouTube: www.youtube.com/sfgmcvideo

SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS PRESENTS VOICES RISING

One-night-only event to feature the world premiere song cycle,

Songs of the Phoenix, featuring 10 songs by 13 composers and lyricists representing an extraordinary diversity of voices

Evening to also include highlights from two of SFGMC’s most significant commissions, a 10th anniversary performance of Stephen Schwartz’s Testimony, plus a special tribute to Stephen Sondheim

Davies Symphony Hall

Sunday, April 10 • 7:30 p.m.

SAN FRANCISCO (February 9, 2022)—Today, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig and Executive Director Chris Verdugo announced Voices Rising, a one-night-only event taking place on Sunday, April 10 at 7:30 p.m. at San Francisco’s Davies Symphony Hall (201 Van Ness Ave.) Tickets are on-sale now by visiting SFGMC.org or by calling 415-392-4400.

Voices Rising will feature the much-anticipated world premiere song cycle, Songs of the Phoenix. Curated by Tony Award nominated Broadway composer Andrew Lippa and produced by Academy Award winner Bruce Cohen, Songs of the Phoenix includes 10 songs by 13 composers and lyricists representing an extraordinary diversity of voices. They are (in alphabetical order): Ty Defoe, Alexandra Elle, Siedah Garrett, Joriah Kwamé, Patrick and Daniel Lazour, Andrew Lippa, Melissa Li, Ingrid Michaelson, Stephen Schwartz, Stephen Sondheim, Diana Syrse, and Kit Yan. SFGMC will welcome special guest performers from San Francisco Bay Area Theater Company. SFBATCO’s Rodney Earl Jackson Jr. and Adam Maggio will also pen the narration for the song cycle. 

“We have been in the planning and creation stages of a major world premiere since before COVID hit,” said Seelig. “The result is Songs of the Phoenix which showcases 13 lyricists and composers who represent an incredible breadth of experience and culture. The music tells the stories of hardship, rebirth, and victory—perfect for our time. In addition, we are excited to share some gems from our past repertoire that are sure to have audiences raising their voices. As we return to Davies Symphony Hall, we sing with the deep knowledge and joy that we have, indeed, survived our 2nd pandemic.”

“The phoenix has been emblematic of the spirit and determination of the City of San Francisco for decades,” said Verdugo. “So, it is only fitting that SFGMC’s triumphant return to Davies Symphony Hall for the first time in over two years will feature the collective rising of over 250 voices and pay tribute to the themes of rebirth in the face of adversity.”

Voices Rising will also include highlights from two of SFGMC’s most significant commissions including Andrew Lippa’s Unbreakable and Julian Hornik’s @queerz, which was originally scheduled to have its world premiere with SFGMC in Spring 2020. The program will also feature a 10th anniversary performance of Testimony, written by three-time Academy Award and four-time Grammy Award-winning composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz. Inspired by the “It Gets Better Project,” Testimony was commissioned by SFGMC and had its world premiere at Davies Symphony Hall in March 2012. The evening will also pay tribute to the late Stephen Sondheim with a selection of his beloved works.

Songs of the Phoenix is generously underwritten by Steve Gallagher and Chris Thorne, in loving memory of Corianna Seelig-Gustafson, with additional support from the National Endowment for the Arts, Joseph Bondi, and Michael Golden and Michael Levy. Voices Rising is sponsored in part by The Terrence D. Chan Foundation. 

About SFGMC

Founded in 1978, SFGMC sparked a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement after its first public performance at a vigil on the steps of City Hall following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. Since then, SFGMC has been embedded in the fabric of San Francisco. It has soothed souls in pain, lifted spirits in triumph, and has remained a steadfast beacon of hope.

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig, SFGMC has established a heightened level of performance standards bringing renewed audience and choral industry acclaim. Recent touring schedules, recordings, and outreach programs have broadened its impact and reputation in the community while maintaining its signature blend of humor, personality and ground-breaking performances. In 2019, SFGMC acquired a historic facility that has become its permanent home for rehearsals and offices. The building also serves as The Chan National Queer Arts Center, the first-ever community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations.

SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS RECEIVES GIFT FROM AMAZON TO INCREASE ACCESSIBILITY AND EQUITY AT THE CHAN NATIONAL QUEER ARTS CENTER

Investment also includes support of RHYTHM, SFGMC’s educational youth outreach program, as well as Crescendo, the non-profit organization’s annual benefit  

SAN FRANCISCO (January 12, 2022)—San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) has received a generous gift from Amazon to support The Chan National Queer Arts Center, SFGMC’s new home and the first-ever community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations. The donation, totaling $250,000, will allow SFGMC to increase accessibility and equity at the Center through several infrastructure improvements, including the installation of an ADA ramp in the lobby, accessible restroom upgrades, and aesthetic improvements throughout the first floor. With an ongoing commitment to accessibility, starting in 2022 Amazon will provide support for RHYTHM, SFGMC’s educational youth outreach program that partners with local school districts to foster a love of music, facilitates understanding, and educates young people on the impact of their words and actions. Amazon’s support of Crescendo, SFGMC’s annual benefit, will also continue. 

“We are deeply appreciative to Amazon for their investment in our local community and commitment to making the arts more equitable and accessible to queer youth, LGBTQ+ seniors, people with disabilities, and more,” said SFGMC Executive Director Chris Verdugo. “This extraordinary gift will support forward-thinking initiatives that will enhance the everyday lives of the diverse communities we serve.”

“For over forty years, the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus has fought against discrimination and bigotry and spread a message of inclusion and inspiration. Amazon stands in solidarity with the mission of the Chorus to lift up diverse voices that build community and foster compassion,” said Sally Kay, Amazon’s Senior Manager of External Affairs in Northern California.

“I'm pleased to welcome Amazon as a partner in supporting this important project,” adds California State Senator Scott Wiener. “The State and the California LGBTQ Legislative Caucus have committed a total of $2.2 million to the Arts Center and look forward to it coming to fruition." 

SFGMC purchased the Chan National Queer Arts Center in April 2019. Located at 170 Valencia Street in the Castro LGBTQ Cultural District, the building is a four-floor historic property designed by architect Harold Stoner. It was completed in 1931 for the Independent Order of Foresters, a fraternal society that sought a space for convenings. From 1976 until 2018, the space was used as the city’s center for the Bahá’í faith. The interior has more than 23,000 square feet, including a spacious lobby, auditorium, stage, dressing rooms, office space, multiple conference rooms, kitchens, and storage. 

The Chan National Queer Arts Center will thrive with vibrant programming to activate the space. The programmatic plans of SFGMC are organized among two pillars: Performances and Public Programs and Community and Partnerships.

 The building will allow for SFGMC to embark on never-before-possible programs, including:

• An ongoing Behind the Curtain series, including interviews with leading voices in the LGBTQ and musical communities

• Guest performances from resident and visiting queer and queer-led arts groups

• Sing-ins that bring together the community and the chorus in one room

• Studio Q, a recording and production studio for capturing audio recordings, videos, live performances, and other digital content

For more information on The Chan National Queer Arts Center, visit www.sfgmc.org. 

About SFGMC

Founded in 1978, SFGMC sparked a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement after its first public performance at a vigil on the steps of City Hall following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. Since then, SFGMC has been embedded in the fabric of San Francisco. It has soothed souls in pain, lifted spirits in triumph, and has remained a steadfast beacon of hope. 

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig, SFGMC has established a heightened level of performance standards bringing renewed audience and choral industry acclaim. Recent touring schedules, recordings, and outreach programs have broadened its impact and reputation in the community while maintaining its signature blend of humor, personality and ground-breaking performances. In 2019, SFGMC acquired a historic facility that has become its permanent home for rehearsals and offices. The building also serves as The Chan National Queer Arts Center, the first-ever community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations.

 For more information on SFGMC, visit www.sfgmc.org
Visit SFGMC TV: www.sfgmc.org/sfgmctv

SFGMC Archive contact: archive@sfgmc.org 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfgmc

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sfgmc

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sfgmc

YouTube: www.youtube.com/sfgmcvideo

About Amazon

Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, and Alexa are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews.

SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH SERIES OF CONCERTS

RETURNING TO THE STAGE FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE THE 2019 HOLIDAY SEASON, THE ANNUAL CONCERTS TO FEATURE FESTIVE FAVORITES AND UNEXPECTED SURPRISES

DECEMBER 10–11, 2021

SYDNEY GOLDSTEIN THEATER

DECEMBER 24, 2021

CASTRO THEATRE

SAN FRANCISCO (November 10, 2021)—San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) is thrilled to announce the return to live, in-person performances with their annual holiday extravaganza, Holigays Are Here…Again!. Considered one of San Francisco Bay Area’s must-see signature holiday treats, this concert will delight audiences with the sight and sounds of over 250 members of the chorus in festive attire performing seasonal songs and sketches new and old. The program will include “Little Drummer Boy,” “Go Tell It On The Mountain,” “Los Peces en el Rio,” “Chanukah in Santa Monica,” as well as some unexpected surprises. Special Guests for Holigays Are Here…Again! include cellist extraordinaire Andrés Vera, soloist Marcus J. Paige; and nine-year-old drummer, Enrique Carreon. Holigays Are Here...Again! will perform at San Francisco’s Sydney Goldstein Theater (275 Hayes St.) on Friday, December 10 at 8 p.m. and Saturday, December 11 at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on-sale now by visiting SFGMC.org or by calling 415-392-4400.

The gifts keep coming this holiday season when SFGMC returns to San Francisco’s iconic Castro Theatre (429 Castro St.) for their annual Home for the Holidays concert on Friday, December 24 at 5 p.m., 7 p.m., and 9 p.m. On Christmas Eve 1990, the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus gathered for the first time at the Castro Theatre to bring the seasonal cheer to those who had no home to go to. Since then, Home for the Holidays has grown into an annual tradition where families—both biological and chosen—gather for a night of joyous music and heartwarming festivities. Tickets for Home for the Holidays are on-sale now at SFGMC.org or by calling 415-392-4400.

“Two years later, the holigays are back on stage for the holidays,” said SFGMC Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig. “This will be one of the most fun and beautiful celebrations in years. The chorus has been rehearsing—masked and distanced—getting everything ready for live audiences! We will tickle every holiday fancy you can think of as we raise the roof with glorious music and shenanigans as only SFGMC can deliver.”

“The Bay Area holiday season is about to get some extra special good cheer with our annual seasonal extravaganza,” adds SFGMC Executive Director Chris Verdugo. “We cannot wait to welcome back all of our SFGMC friends and family, old and new, to one of the most beloved events in and around San Francisco.”

Audiences in or near Sonoma County and Berkeley will get something extra special this holiday season with performances closer to home. San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus will bring Holigays Are Here…Again! to audiences at two other venues throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. On Saturday, December 18, the Chorus will perform at the Green Music Center in Rohnert Park (1801 E. Cotati Ave.). On Sunday, December 19, the Chorus will perform at Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse (2020 Addison St.) in Berkeley. Tickets for the Green Music Center concert are available at gmc.sonoma.edu/. Tickets for the Freight & Salvage concert are available at thefreight.org.

About SFGMC

Founded in 1978, SFGMC sparked a nationwide LGBTQ choral movement after its first public performance at a vigil on the steps of City Hall following the assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone. Since then, SFGMC has been embedded in the fabric of San Francisco. It has soothed souls in pain, lifted spirits in triumph, and has remained a steadfast beacon of hope.

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig, SFGMC has established a heightened level of performance standards bringing renewed audience and choral industry acclaim. Recent touring schedules, recordings, and outreach programs have broadened its impact and reputation in the community while maintaining its signature blend of humor, personality and ground-breaking performances. In 2019, SFGMC acquired a historic facility that has become its permanent home for rehearsals and offices. The building also serves as The Chan National Queer Arts Center, the first-ever community space for LGBTQ artists and arts organizations.

For more information on SFGMC, visit www.sfgmc.org

Visit SFGMC TV: www.sfgmc.org/sfgmctv

SFGMC Archive contact: archive@sfgmc.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfgmc

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sfgmc

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sfgmc

YouTube: www.youtube.com/sfgmcvideo