Boise Gay Men’s Chorus
Boise Gay Men’s Chorus (BGMC), now in its 11th year, is to our knowledge the first and only gay men’s chorus in Idaho. The group held its first concert in December 2013 at Cathedral of the Rockies. BGMC continues to build a diverse musical ensemble whose goal is to spread a message of hope and love for the LGBTQ+ community through unity, song and engagement. BGMC has now established itself as a well-known and respected arts organization with a strong presence in the Treasure Valley.
In July 2024, under the leadership of Artistic Director David Burton, BGMC attended its second GALA Festival in Minneapolis, following its first appearance at the 2016 festival in Denver. GALA Festival is a quadrennial event that brings LGBTQ+ choruses from around the world to perform and celebrate diversity together. This year’s festival hosted more than 7,000 singers from 122 choruses for five days of singing, creating, connecting and performing at world-class venues in downtown Minneapolis.
Voices from Boise Gay Men’s Chorus
Hear what some of our singers have to say about their experience with the BGMC community and why they love to sing with us.
BGMC auditions
Formal auditions take place each August and January, but we welcome inquiries at any time. (Please use the contact form to send us your message). Auditions include vocal drills, pitch-matching exercises, sight-reading or singing a prepared song, depending on the artistic director’s needs for a given season. We admit singers with musical experience or those willing to work hard to learn their music. Practice aids, including part tracks for each vocal range, are available on our member portal, Chorus Connection.
BGMC membership
Membership in Boise Gay Men’s Chorus opens up a world of opportunities, along with some responsibilities. If you are invited to join the chorus, rehearsals are held 7 to 9 pm every Monday night during the season, and regular attendance is expected. We ask singers to pay dues to help cover our operating costs. It’s a big commitment but immensely rewarding and tons of fun.
We have many chances throughout the year to appear not only at our own concerts but also at other events and venues, including Boise Pride, the State Capitol, Payette Brewery, JUMP, Festival of the Trees and more. BGMC also has a small a cappella group, The Rainbeaus, that is open to all active BGMC members. Participation requires attendance at the Rainbeaus regular rehearsals, 7 to 9 pm on Wednesday evenings in Boise. Please direct any questions to Michael Stear, Rainbeaus Artistic Director.
There are opportunities to volunteer at our events as well as take on leadership roles for those who have an interest and skills to share. At whatever level you choose to participate, you will meet new people, make new friends and become part of a family that loves and supports one another while making beautiful music together!