Chorus Highlights
2022
Eric Shepard becomes the Artistic Director & Conductor of the Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus.
Commissions and performs “Sanctuary” by Ben Wexler.
2021
Performs 20th Anniversary Concert “Music That Matters” as an outdoor event at Lauridsen Amphitheater in Water Works Park. Dr. Randy Buikema and Dr. Rebecca Gruber, former Artistic Directors, return as special guests to conduct.
The Chorus is the subject of an Iowa State University research project and display, entitled “Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus: Queer Spaces, Collectives Styles, and Activist Dress, 1984 to the Present.”
2020
Performs first online virtual concert “Light in the Darkness” due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Develops and publishes “Out in the Schools” curriculum of equity and inclusion to Iowa high schools.
2019
Performs Andrew Lippa’s newest oratorio, Unbreakable, chronicling 100+ years of LGBTQ+ history in America in song
2018
Performs an LGBT Masterwork, Tyler's Suite, a nine-piece choral movement written in response to Tyler Clementi's suicide; sung from the perspective of those closest to him, Tyler's Suite was raw, uplifting, and filled with hope
2017
Performs Our Bodies Our Lives in partnership with The Project of Primary Healthcare
Several panels of the AIDS quilt are on display at the performance
2016
Performs When I Knew – stories and songs of ‘that moment’
DMGMC and HarMANY perform at the GALA Festival in Denver, CO
2015
Performs I Am Harvey Milk by Andrew Lippa
Creates a music video as a contribution to the It Gets Better project
2014
Concert sponsorship from the Meredith Corp. Diversity Group for SOUNDS WITHOUT BOUNDS
Holds Chorus Fundraiser EAT. DRINK. SING. – showcasing fine chefs in private homes
Performs with main stage act, Gloom Balloon, at the 80/35 Music Festival
2013
Collaborates with Simpson College Women’s Chorale
Celebrity performer Miss Richfield 1981 hosts the BIG GAY SING
Celebrates the anniversary of Walnut Hills UMC becoming a reconciling congregation
2012
DMGMC and HarMANY sing performances at the GALA Festival 2012 in Denver, CO
Transitions to online ticketing and produces a CD
Performs at the Roosevelt High School Pride celebration
2011
Celebrates the anniversary of Varnum v Brien with MUSIC FOR A CHANGE and a judges’ forum
10th anniversary celebration performance of Eos by David Conte with guest conductor Dr. Randal A. Buikema
2010
Performs in the Des Moines Social Club and Capitol Hill Lutheran Church
Performs a concert in Grinnell, IA benefitting the food pantry
Performs A NIGHT AT THE OPERA with the Des Moines Community Orchestra
2009
For the first time, sings at a same-sex wedding ceremony
DMGMC’s small ensemble HarMANY, debuts with Ben Hagen, director
Collaborates with Des Moines Vocal Arts Ensemble in a holiday concert
2008
Performs for the Hoover High School/Meredith Middle School Gay-Straight Alliance
Commissions In Our America, by composer Ben Allaway
Performs a program advocating marriage equality at GALA Festival 2008 in Miami, FL
2007
Performs at Governor Chet Culver and Lt. Governor Patty Judge Inauguration Ceremony
Performs a joint concert with Minnesota’s GLBTA chorus, One Voice Mixed Chorus
2006
Dr. Rebecca Gruber appointed Artistic Director and Conductor
Performs for the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner, keynote speaker President Bill Clinton
2005
Ben Hagen joins the chorus as Accompanist
Performs a joint concert with the Des Moines Symphony, Westminster Church Oratorio Choir, and Iowa Y0uth Chorus
2003
Performs for the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner, keynote speaker Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton
Performs at Governor Tom Vilsack and Lt. Governor Sally Pederson Inauguration Ceremony
2001
The Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus (DMGMC) establishes itself under the guidance of Dr. Randal A. Buikema
DMGMC gives its first performance at Cottage Grove Presbyterian Church
1985 through 1992
The Des Moines Men's Chorus began in a member's basement; some founding members sing with the DMGMC today.
The Chorus then practiced at the Urbandale United Church of Christ—the first open and affirming congregation in the Des Moines area.
