October is LGBT History Month, celebrating the accomplishments of prominent people who are also queer. And a talented troupe of local singers is already celebrating.
The Syracuse Gay and Lesbian Chorus, whose members are part of the LGBTQ+ community, wowed the audience at the Westcott Street fair this month.
The group prides itself on who it includes, rather than excludes. Most are LGBTQ members, and some are allies, such as choral director Brian Ackles.
“It's a wonderful, supportive community, and they're all [here] to support each other,” both emotionally he explained, and through music. “And they're just an absolute blast to work with,” Ackles added.
It was their second year performing at the Westcott Street Fair, a 33 year tradition celebrating Syracuse’s diversity.
Denise Cody, a first soprano, has sung with the SGLC for 23 years.
“It felt good to come out and sing for other people and see people smile and enjoy what they're hearing,” she said.
The chorus “takes any opportunity [it] can to get in front of the community,” said choral chairperson Mark Miller, adding that it’s open to all LGBTQ people in central New York who crave a community.
In divisive times, Ackles said “the GLC choir offers a sanctuary for Syracuse’s gay residents,” and ”I think it's a wonderful place for people to go, to feel safe, to feel accepted, and to express themselves,” he explained.
For fairgoers like Leslie Noble the SGLC’s performance, “Was great,” and she found the songs “very uplifting and full of hope and just a wonderful event for the community.”
To hear more from the SGLC you can attend one of their upcoming holiday concerts at the May Memorial Unitarian Universalist Society. Ticket information is available on their website.