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: [email protected]

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: [email protected]

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: [email protected] 

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: [email protected]

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 ANNOUNCES LINEUP FOR IN-PERSON SEASON

SEASON 44 TO INCLUDE THE RETURN OF SFGMC’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA, A GROUNDBREAKING WORLD PREMIERE FEATURING THE WORKS OF 13 COMPOSERS AND LYRICISTS, AND A FAREWELL CONCERT WITH THE SAN FRANCISCO SYMPHONY FOR ARTISTIC DIRECTOR DR. TIMOTHY SEELIG

SAN FRANCISCO (September 23, 2021)—Today, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) Artistic Director Dr. Timothy Seelig and Executive Director Chris Verdugo announced the three-concert lineup for Season 44. Featuring the 250+ singers of the chorus, the in-person season will kick-off with the return of SFGMC’s annual holiday extravaganza, Holigays Are Here...Again! This will mark the SFGMC’s return to live performance for the first time in over two years. The Spring 2022 concert, Voices Rising, features a groundbreaking world premiere movement with works of 13 renowned composers and lyricists. The season will conclude with Final Words, a farewell concert featuring the San Francisco Symphony for Seelig who will be retiring at the end of Season 44.

Conductor’s Society memberships (starting at donations of $120 or more) are available now at sfgmc.org/conductors-society. Member benefits include discounts, presale opportunities, event invitations, and more.

“It is with immense gratitude and humility that we return to live, in-person performances,” said Verdugo. “Season 44 will celebrate SFGMC’s tradition of creating music together and sharing in a collective experience. The last 18 months have taught us that we are truly in this together. We are grateful for the support of our community during these challenging times and look forward to lifting each other up through music.” 

“Season 44 is going to be the best of new and old,” adds Seelig. “We are thrilled to be presenting a huge world premiere—perhaps our largest to date—and, at the same time, bringing back our favorite hits from the last 10 seasons. From the first note of the holiday concerts, through the spring world premiere, and to the final notes with friends in July 2022, this season is one for the books.”

SFGMC rings in the holiday season with its annual seasonal extravaganza, Holigays Are Here...Again (December 10–11, 18–19, & 24, 2021). Returning to the stage for the first time since the 2019 holiday season, SFGMC brings back everything that has made this concert one of San Francisco Bay Area’s annual signature holiday treats. This year’s concert will feature something for everyone, including “Little Drummer Boy,” “Go Tell It On The Mountain,” “Los Peces en el Rio,” and “Over the River.” Featuring special guests: Marcus J. Paige, Andrés Vera, and Enrique Carreon. Holigays Are Here...Again will perform at San Francisco’s Sydney Goldstein Theater on December 10 & 11 (click for tickets); Rohnert Park’s Green Music Center on December 18 (click for tickets); Berkeley’s Freight & Salvage on December 19 (click for tickets); and San Francisco’s historic Castro Theatre on December 24.

Next, SFGMC will present a major musical event entitled Voices Rising (April 10, 2021). In the early part of the 20th century, the city of San Francisco adopted the rising phoenix as a symbol of having overcome city-wide challenges. It is only fitting that this groundbreaking evening includes the world premiere of Songs of the Phoenix. Tony Award-nominated Broadway composer Andrew Lippa has curated an incredible group of 13 composers and lyricists representing an extraordinary diversity of voices including Ty Defoe, Alexandra Elle, Siedah Garrett, Joriah Kwame, Patrick and Daniel Lazour, Melissa Li, Ingrid Michaelson, Stephen Schwartz, Stephen Sondheim, Diana Syrse, and Kit Yan. The evening will take place at San Francisco’s Davies Symphony Hall.

Closing out the season, SFGMC will present Final Words (July 13, 2022). The first performance under the baton of Dr. Timothy Seelig took place at Davies Symphony Hall in 2011 and was titled “Words.” Celebrating the last concert of his tenure, SFGMC will present “Final Words.” Joined by the San Francisco Symphony for the first time in SFGMC’s 43-year history, the celebration will feature some of the chorus’s favorite pieces from the past 10 years, including Testimony by Stephen Schwartz, Unbreakable by Andrew Lippa and Tyler’s Suite, as well as other all-time SFGMC favorites. Special guests include the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir. Final Words will take place at San Francisco’s Davies Symphony Hall. 

# # #

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: [email protected]

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfgmc

Twitter: www.twitter.com/sfgmc

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sfgmc

YouTube: www.youtube.com/sfgmcvideo

Statement from San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus July 9, 2021

“The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus was founded, in part, to fight discrimination and bigotry against all peoples. Today, our chorus members are facing death threats, vile attacks, false accusations, doxing, and other forms of harassment because of our satirical video performance “Message from the Gay Community.” 

“We placed the video in private mode to quell the intolerance and hateful responses from mostly anonymous people. Upon reflection, we have made it live again for all to see the satirical and obviously tongue-in-cheek humor. We want everyone to judge for themselves. We will not allow ourselves, even in the face of death threats, to retreat or bow to attempts to twist our words, meaning, self-deprecation and humor. 

“We are thankful for the efforts of the San Francisco Police Department and law enforcement for their quick response and assistance in handling these threats. 

“The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus is dedicated to being role models, teaching, and spreading the message of love, inclusion, humor, and celebration through our music. We believe, most fervently, in open dialogue , communication, and free speech.  We will continue to do so through our music.  We invite everyone to join us.”

Statement from GLAAD’s President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis
in support of San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus

The San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus performed a tongue-in-cheek song commissioned by an external arts organization which ironically had a simple message around teaching young people to speak out against anti-LGBTQ hate. The Chorus sings in harmony, ‘Someone’s got to teach them not to hate.’ As a result of manipulation from anti-LGBTQ media figures, the Chorus is now facing uncalled-for and disgusting threats of violence, as well as hate and harassment, across social media. As GLAAD’s Social Media Safety Index reported, hate and harassment too often goes unchecked on social media and the platforms need to act swiftly to address the hateful content directed at the Chorus, especially the threats of violence. The ugly anti-LGBTQ rhetoric just reinforces the need for LGBTQ visibility, community, and advocacy, all of which the SFGMC has exemplified in its 40+ year history.”

SAN FRANCISCO GAY MEN’S CHORUS ARTISTIC DIRECTOR & CONDUCTOR DR. TIM SEELIG TO RETIRE AT THE CONCLUSION OF SFGMC’S SEASON 44

SAN FRANCISCO (June 29, 2021)—Following 10 seasons as Artistic Director & Conductor, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC) Executive Director Chris Verdugo and Board Chair Glenn DeSandre announced today that Dr. Tim Seelig will retire at the conclusion of SFGMC’s Season 44 in 2022.

 “As I look back over the last decade with the chorus, the milestones are humbling,” said Seelig. “The chorus has been able to honor its commitment to music and mission. The music, new and old, has been glorious. The mission continues to stand as a beacon guiding this chorus through what is now 43 years. For me, the successes of these 10 seasons with SFGMC are not counted in numbers of singers or dollars, but in the lives and hearts moved by the music we have made together.”

 “San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus will forever be indebted to Tim for his many years of service and contributions to the chorus and our community,” said Verdugo. “During his tenure, the organization has seen an overwhelming increase in chorus members—expanding to over 300 singers—and he’s created an artistic product to rival some of the best men’s choral ensembles in the country. He helped elevate SFGMC to the global stage while also transforming the chorus into a worldwide leader in the LGBTQ+ choral movement. He’s been a partner, friend and leader.”

 “Anyone who has ever attended one of our concerts will agree that Tim is an incredible artistic visionary who has created a men's chorus that is among the best in the world.,” adds DeSandre. “Arguably though, his biggest legacy are the thousands of singers and audience members who have been galvanized to take up the mantle of social justice by Tim's artistry, musical commissions, and inspirational words. More than just a conductor he is a mentor, coach, father, brother, and friend to all of us and he will be greatly missed.”

 Considered one of the nation’s most prolific choral directors, Seelig has had an accomplished 10 seasons at San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus 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 tenure, 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.

 Says Tony Award nominee Andrew Lippa: “SFGMC will flourish after Tim’s mighty leadership concludes. The sign of all great leaders is exactly this: leave things better than when you started; influence the organization to keep growing in your absence; be proud and know you taught them and helped them reach their goals so they can set new, higher ones.  This is the legacy of Dr. Timothy Seelig. He is friend, mentor, teacher, leader, and forever, musician.”

 “Tim has been a driving force in the evolution of our movement,” adds GALA Choruses Executive Director Robin L. Godfrey. “His passion for artistic excellence has driven our choruses to new heights and his connections outside the LGBTQ choral world have enhanced our visibility. Under Tim’s leadership, the Turtle Creek Chorale and San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus have commissioned new music and films that eloquently tell our stories to millions around the world.  New talent will appear on the scene, but Tim’s imprint on the LGBT choral movement will live on for generations.”

 “For the past decade, Tim brought and shared his passion for music and mission to SFGMC in dramatic ways,” said Michael Tate, SFGMC Member and President of the Board of GALA Choruses. “He is a master storyteller and deftly takes the audience on a journey at every concert evoking his signature TLC: ‘tears, laughter and chill bumps.’ With his unique combination of good humor and unparalleled mastery of choral pedagogy, he has raised the musical bar for SFGMC to heights of which we had only dreamed.” 

Known for his enthusiasm and humor, Seelig has secured his place as an in-demand guest conductor and teacher across the United States and the globe. For 25 years, Seelig conducted annually at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. Other guest conducting highlights include conducting 700+ singers plus orchestra in “I Am Harvey Milk” in Denver; conducting the Guinness Book of World Record’s Longest Choral Concert; conducting the Canadian premiere of “Tyler’s Suite” in Ottawa; and the first openly gay man to conduct the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

Prior to joining San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, Seelig was Artistic Director & Conductor of Dallas’ Turtle Creek Chorale for 20 years, where he is currently Conductor Emeritus, and served on the faculty at Southern Methodist University for 14 years. Seelig’s early training was as a singer. He made his European operatic debut at the Staatsoper in St. Gallen, Switzerland and his solo recital debut at Carnegie Hall. He appeared as soloist in world premieres of composers including John Corigliano, Conrad Susa, and Peter Schikele.

Dr. Seelig holds four degrees, including the Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of North Texas and the Diploma from the Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria. He has authored numerous books and DVDs on choral technique including best-sellers “The Perfect Blend” and “The Perfect Rehearsal,” as well as “The Perfect Choral Workbook,” “Quick Choral Fixes,” and “The Music Within.” In 2020, Seelig released his memoir, “Tale of Two Tims: Big Ol’ Baptist, Big Ol’ Gay.”

In 2022, Dr. Seelig will have been conducting LGBTQ+ choruses for 35 years.

A committee led by Paul Saccone and Maren Amdal will formally launch the search for SFGMC’s next Artistic Director on August 1.