I live 5 blocks from the intersection where George Floyd was killed. In the days and weeks after his death our neighborhood was transformed into what I can only imagine must feel like a war zone. Helicopters and sirens circled 24-7, convoys of camouflaged national guard trucks patrolled our streets, curfews were set, and white […]

Nothing like art to stir conversation and dialogue! Opera companies around the world are performing a chamber opera (As One) that premiered in 2014 exploring the life of a transgender woman. The libretto was co-written by Kimberly Reed, drawing from her own experience as a trans woman. In the original production, the lead role was […]

Two years ago I had lunch with Steve Milloy at the GALA Leadership Symposium in Cleveland. While chatting Steve asked if I would be interested in commissioning a musical oratorio on the life of gay, African American civil rights activist Bayard Rustin. I said yes immediately; I’m pretty sure he hadn’t even finished the sentence! I […]

Fifteen years ago, Jan Michael, an alto in my chorus, approached me to share that s/he identified as transgender and was beginning his physical transition by taking testosterone. I was clueless about the process but suggested that we check in every few months for a range check. Within the next year, to my amazement, Jan’s […]

Once a month GALA Choruses is offering tips on vocalization and singing for our chorus members. If you have tips to share or vocal questions that you would like addressed just shoot me an email.  This first tip comes from veteran conductor and clinician, Dr. Stan Hill.         – Jane Ramseyer Miller, […]