sing with us!
Come Join Our Family!
Although people join DMGMC for many reasons, the organization’s primary focus is music. As a gay men’s chorus, DMGMC has a unique opportunity to represent the gay community and to highlight the gifts and skills of gay musicians. Music touches hearts in ways words alone never will. By being a part of DMGMC, you set yourself apart as a proud example to others who may not have positive gay role models. The Chorus is comprised entirely of volunteer singers and membership is open to all; there is no audition to join the chorus! The small ensemble group, HarMANY, is open by audition.
If you’re just Coming Out or Thinking About It
The Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus is a welcoming, friendly, and supportive community. Everyone in the Chorus is on a journey of growth, and no matter where you are on yours, our mission is to help. Many of us find singing a healing activity that uplifts and binds us together in many ways. We also have a support network through our membership committee which supports members in many ways.
What You Should Expect From the Chorus
Joining DMGMC provides you with opportunities to:
perform with others for a variety of audiences in Central Iowa.
rehearse vocal selections under the direction of a competent and prepared artistic staff.
be provided a schedule and resources to individually prepare and perform quality music.
socialize in a positive and productive environment.
make a difference in the Central Iowa LGBTQ+ and broader communities.
Although people join DMGMC for many reasons, the organization’s primary focus is music. As a gay men’s chorus, DMGMC has a unique opportunity to represent the gay community, and to highlight the gifts and skills of gay musicians. Music touches hearts in ways words alone never will. By being a part of DMGMC, you set yourself apart as a proud example to others who may not have positive gay role models.
What the Chorus Expects From You:
Be on time and prepared vocally and physically for all rehearsals and performances.
Promote the Chorus’ mission and vision for musical excellence.
Respect fellow singing and non-singing chorus members and staff of DMGMC.
Represent DMGMC in a positive, professional manner.
Perform with pride and have fun.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When and where does the Chorus rehearse?
DMGMC rehearses on Mondays, 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. during regular concert season. A concert cycle lasts about 12 weeks followed by a two to three week break between concerts; typically there are no rehearsals after the summer Pride Concert until fall rehearsals begin. We rehearse at Plymouth Congregational Church, 4126 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines, IA at the corner of 42nd and Ingersoll, 3rd floor Recital Hall. Park in the ramp on the east side of the church. There are extra optional sectional rehearsals available as well (usually on Tuesday nights).
What is the required concert attire?
Our traditional concert attire is a standard single-breasted black tuxedo jacket and pants (with black silk stripe down the leg), white tuxedo shirt with fold-down collar, a black cummerbund or black vest, and black bow tie. Black polished dress shoes are also expected. DMGMC provides financial assistance for anyone who may struggle to purchase this attire (we also have a closet of donated tuxedos!). On many occasions, in a less formal environment, the chorus members may wear a chorus polo shirt with nice pants. The Chorus makes accommodations for singers whose gender expression would make them feel uncomfortable wearing a traditional tuxedo.
What does it cost to be a member?
Members are responsible for contributing to the financial health of the Chorus through payment of dues. Dues shall be $75 per person for the concert season or $25 payable each concert cycle. We understand that the commitment of being in DMGMC can pose a financial challenge for some. Whether you are a student, living on a fixed income, or have other hardships, we do not want costs to prevent your participation in the chorus. Accordingly, scholarships can be arranged based on financial needs for concert attire or other expenses associated with DMGMC membership. Please make a confidential inquiry to the Membership Chair or Artistic Director for assistance. All requests are confidential.
Is there an attendance policy?
For the chorus to achieve its goal of high quality musical productions, commitment to attending rehearsals is required. Excused rehearsal absences – members will be permitted no more than 3 excused absences from vocal rehearsals per concert cycle prior to production week. Absences will be counted as excused if notification is made prior to the time of rehearsal by contacting your Section Leader or Artistic Director. Excessive absences/missing tech week rehearsals and concert performances – any member exceeding any of the above requirements should assume that they will not perform in the pending production. The Artistic Director may consider exceptions to the attendance policy, reviewing such circumstances as member’s attendance in optional rehearsals, and member’s ability to demonstrate proficiency in vocal performance and memorization. The decision to grant an exception shall be with the Artistic Director and all decisions shall be final.
Do I have to read music to be able to join?
No, though it's great if you can! Once you join the Des Moines Gay Men's Chorus, you will have plenty of assistance and help from your fellow members, as well as your section leader and our Artistic Director. We do provide singers with vocal rehearsal tracks, so you can practice on your own at home.