Mens’ Choruses Will Merge — Name Contest Underway

The Gay Men’s Chorus of San Diego and The San Diego Men’s Chorus are merging to create a new united chorus, beginning in January.
The merger has been in the works since early 2009, when both boards of directors unanimously approved the move. Gary Holt has been named artistic director of the new as-yet-unnamed chorus. Holt, who has a long history on stage, was the founding director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of San Diego. He also served a three-year term on the national Board of Directors of the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses. Formerly employed at The Old Globe Theatre, he is now an attorney in private practice.
“An important part of our vision for the new chorus is to entertain our audiences at the highest level, while at the same time solidifying our commitment to community outreach and the creation of new music,” Holt said in a prepared statement. “Creating a unified chorus will have exciting impact for the people already a part of our two choruses, new members looking for a fulfilling artistic and social experience, the LGBT community and San Diego audiences as a whole.”
The San Diego Men’s Chorus was founded in 1985 and is San Diego’s longest-running gay arts organization. The Gay Men’s Chorus of San Diego was founded in 1992 by 11 members of the San Diego Men’s Chorus who wanted to sing in a self-identified “gay” chorus.
Leading up to the merger, both choruses will present their first joint concert performances in December.
But first, a new name will be chosen for the merged chorus. Suggestions may be submitted via both chorus Web sites, www.GMCSD.com or www.sdmc.org. The contest began Aug. 1 and runs through Aug. 24. The final selection will be made by the entire membership of both choruses. The winner will receive two free tickets to all major shows the new chorus performs in 2010, or free 2010 member dues. The winner will also be an invited guest at the Dec. 12 Holiday Concert at the Balboa Theater.