Mission Statement
The mission of the Silicon Valley Gay Men's Chorus is to inspire our diverse
community through musical excellence and collective pride.
Vision
Transforming our global community through song.
Values
We will always:
- Value the contributions of singers and non-singers to the organization
- Support continual improvement of our singers through individual practice, committed participation, and regular attendance
- Support sound organizational structure that includes fiscal solvency, open communication, and strong leadership
- Promote acceptance, justice, and equality for all in the community
- Reflect the diversity of our community through our music and membership without endorsing specific beliefs or views
- Provide a safe haven and fellowship for our members
- Perform with openness, visibility, and pride
History
The Silicon Valley Gay Men's Chorus (SVGMC) was originally called the Liedermann Gay Men's Chorus of San Jose. A group of ten men formed the chorus on June 29, 1983. The chorus sang its first full-length performance under the direction of Robert B. Welton on June 16, 1984 as part of San Jose's Gay Pride Celebration.
The chorus' artistic directors have included:
- Robert Welton (1983-1984)
- Jim Clarke (1984-1986)
- Dan Jepson (1986-1988)
- Lynne McLaughlin (1988-1994)
- Buddy Symes (1994-2003)
- Daniel Hughes (2003-present)