This collection contains six scrapbooks of materials relating to the Lesbian and Gay Chorus of San Francisco. The scrapbooks include photographs, programs, flyers, chorus notes, buttons, ticket stubs, and other ephemera.

The Lesbian and Gay Chorus of San Francisco was founded in 1980 and is the nation’s oldest self-identified LGBT mixed chorus. The Chorus is dedicated to building and enriching the LGBT community through song and a love of music. The group was initially known as the San Francisco Lesbian and Gay Men’s Community Chorus under the leadership of conductor, Robin Kay. The Chorus has participated in many historical LGBT events including the Gay Freedom Day Parade, the Gay Musical Celebration at Grace Cathedral, the Gay Games, annual Pride concerts, and numerous AIDS fundraisers. The Chorus was a part of the nonprofit arts organization, Golden Gate Performing Arts, Inc. (GGPA) and also helped to found the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA) in 1981. The group was renamed the Lesbian and Gay Chorus of San Francisco in 1984. A number of artistic directors and conductors have led the Chorus over the years including Robin Kay (1980-1982); Sherrin Lloyd (1983); Matt O’Grady (December 1983-1985); Rodger Pettyjohn (1985-1987); Pat Parr (1987-June 1997); Trente Morant (Fall 1997-June 1998); Bill Ganz (Fall 1998-Spring 1999); Michael Carlson (June 1999-June 2001); J.R. Faust (Fall 2001-Spring 2002); Stephanie Lynn Smith (Spring 2002-Pride 2010); Cole Thomason-Redus (Fall 2010, Guest Director 2015); William Sauerland (2011-2017); Joe Wicht (Guest Director 2016 & 2017); Michael Reilly (2017-present).

2 linear feet (2 cartons)

Copyright to material has been transferred to the GLBT Historical Society. All requests for reproductions and/or permission to publish or quote from material must be submitted in writing to the GLBT Historical Society Archivist.

Collection is open for research. Finding Aid created by Megan Needels in 2022 with funding provided by the National Historical Publications & Records Commission.