One Voice Mixed Chorus includes gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender people and straight allies. It is one of the largest LGBT choruses in North America, the 100 singing members range from ages 15 to 81, and the “Fifth Section” has more than 50 non-singing volunteers. They perform in schools, at community events, and for marquee concerts. Under the direction of Artistic Director Kimberly Waigwa, the chorus has throughout the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota.[1]
History
One Voice Mixed Chorus gave its debut concert in 1989, making it one of the first choruses to bring together people from the LGBTQ communities in the region. The chorus was founded in 1988 by Minnesota native Paul Petrella.[2]
Performances and music
One Voice Mixed Chorus performs 20 to 30 events annually. Two major concerts are held in January and June of each year. The chorus also conducts an annual outreach tour (often in greater Minnesota), and a series of workshops and concerts in Twin Cities middle and high-schools. The annual fundraiser, Spring Fever, is held in April.
Their concert themes have included messages about LGBT life experiences, humor within their community, safe sex, AIDS, breast cancer awareness, queer reflections on history, the many dimensions of families, freedom songs from oppressed communities of the world, and music by typically under-represented composers (especially women and LesBiGayTrans artists).
In addition to the chorus, there is an ensemble, OVation, that is a subset of the One Voice singers who perform in the community and at One Voice's major concerts. Of particular importance is the outreach to schools and youth.
One Voice Mixed Chorus also participates in the GALA Choruses Festival held in Minneapolis.[3]
Performance history
Recent appearances include:
Come Fly With Me: A GLBT Romp Around the World, June 15–16, 2012 at History Theatre St. Paul, Minnesota
Uncommon Light: Brahms and the Beauty of Shadow, January 25–26, 2008 Saint Paul, Minnesota
Outreach Tour to Iowa (Des Moines, Iowa City, Cedar Falls) November 9–11, 2007
Generations Rock Concert, June 16 & 17, 2007 at the American History Theater Saint Paul, Minnesota
Reclaiming Faith, In The Spirit Of Justice, January 20–21, 27-28, 2007
Outreach Tour, Northern Minnesota and Winnipeg Canada, November 10–13, 2006
Membership
Membership is by audition, held twice each year. In addition there are volunteer opportunities available to non-singing members. These members comprise what is called the Fifth Section.
Organization
One Voice Mixed Chorus is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. It is funded through dues from singing members, donations from individuals and corporations as well as grants.
One Voice Mixed Chorus operates under the direction of a board of directors and a number of committees. Committees include personnel, development, production, membership, finance, and music selection.
Staff positions include the artistic director, executive director, operations coordinator, and the OVation ensemble coach.
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