Our Mission

The Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus is dedicated to promoting harmony among all while advancing a positive image of gay people through outstanding musicianship, creative programming, and community outreach.

Our History

Originally known as the Des Moines Men’s Chorus from 1985 to 1992, the Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus (DMGMC) reorganized in 2001 under the guidance of Artistic Director and Conductor, Dr. Randal A. Buikema. In 2005, the chorus found new leadership under Dr. Rebecca Gruber, the current Artistic Director and Conductor.

The chorus has an extensive history of performances and honors. Newly reformed, the Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus gave its first performance in May 2001, thanks to the dedication of supportive members of the community. The chorus now presents a three-concert season and performs at various events in the community.

Chorus Highlights

  • 2001
  • The Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus establishes itself under the guidance of Dr. Randal A. Buikema
  • DMGMC gives its first performance at Cottage Grove Presbyterian Church
  • 2003
  • Performs at Gov. Tom Vilsack and Lt. Gov. Sally Pederson’s Inauguration ceremony
  • The chorus sings the national anthem for the annual Jefferson-Jackson dinner with keynote speaker, Senator Hillary Clinton
  • 2005
  • The chorus sings a joint concert with the Des Moines Symphony, Westminster Church Oratorio Choir, and Iowa Youth Chorus under the direction of German conductor Markus Huber
  • 2006
  • Rebecca Gruber selected to be Artistic Director & Conductor
  • The chorus sings the national anthem for the Jefferson-Jackson dinner with keynote speaker, former President Bill Clinton
  • 2007
  • The chorus performs at Gov. Chet Culver and Lt. Gov. Patty Judge Inauguration ceremony
  • The chorus performs a joint concert in Des Moines with ONE VOICE MIXED CHORUS, Minnesota’s GLBTA chorus
  • 2008
  • The chorus is invited to perform for at several community events including Walnut Hills United Methodist Church in Urbandale, Ames United Church of Christ-Congregational in Ames, and the Hoover High School/Meredith Middle School Gay-Straight Alliance
  • DMGMC performs in Miami, FL at GALA FESTIVAL 8, the first apprearnace at this quadrennial international LGBT choral festival.
  • 2009
  • The chorus receives a rousing response its first cabaret-style program, HOW SWEET IT IS
  • HarMENy, the chorus’ small ensemble, debuts at the HOW SWEET IT IS concert
  • 2010-2011 season
  • The chorus performs an OPERA CHORUS concert in partnership with the Des Moines Community Orchestra
  • Performs the national anthem at the annual Jefferson-Jackson dinner
  • The chorus sings in worship at Walnut Hills United Methodist Church to commemorate their passage as a reconciling congregation
  • The chorus celebrates the 10th anniversary with a concert featuring Eos by David Conte and Dr. Randal A. Buikema (founding Artistic Director & Conductor) guest conducting repertory from the innagural concert
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