Indianapolis Women’s Chorus’ 30th anniversary concert on May 18 and 19 will feature IWC’s signature blend of diverse and powerful music: from R&B and folk favorites (think Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan), to vocal jazz and gospel, to heart-lifting, heart-opening and light-hearted choral works. The celebration will also include the world premiere of Fire-Flowers, a new song written especially for IWC by composer Tyler Secor.
When it was created in the early 1990s alongside the Indianapolis Men’s Chorus, IWC was envisioned as a supportive community for gays and lesbians through music. At that time, members of the LGBTQ+ community had few places where they could be their true selves.
In a history of IWC written to celebrate its 25th anniversary, former IWC Board Member Kaye McSpadden wrote, “Born out of the crushing personal experiences of societal and family rejection, systemic discrimination, and the horrors of the AIDS epidemic, the dream of forming a gay-friendly musical organization was precious. The group would be a much-needed sanctuary for its members and provide a positive way to work for change through music.”
Though much has changed in the world and IWC over the last 30 years, IWC continues to be a singing community that provides a safe and inclusive space. The current chorus’ 100 women, nonbinary, gender nonconforming, and transgender individuals sing in the soprano/alto (treble) range and bring to the organization varied ages, sexual orientations, races/ethnicities, abilities, backgrounds and musical knowledge.
“We are intentional about sharing songs that affirm the experiences of those whose voices often go unheard, highlighting the music of women, LGBTQ+, feminist, and BIPOC composers or arrangers,” said IWC Artistic Director Meagan Johnson. “We also work to raise awareness about social and environmental issues and support the work of others engaged in creating a more just, peaceful and inclusive community.”
Since the first concert in 1994, 480 Central Indiana singers have been part of IWC.
WHEN: May 18, 7 p.m. and May 19, 3 p.m.
WHERE: Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center, University of Indianapolis, 1230 Greyhound Lane
