Draft:BrightonGMC

Brighton Gay Men's Chorus
Also known asBrightonGMC
OriginBrighton & Hove, UK
GenresChoral, LGBTQ+ choir
Years active2005–present
Websitewww.brightongmc.org

Brighton Gay Men's Chorus (often abbreviated as BrightonGMC) is a voluntary, non-auditioned community choir based in Brighton and Hove, United Kingdom. Founded in 2005, it is recognised as one of the largest LGBT choirs in the UK and is a registered charity.[1]

History

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The chorus was established in 2005 with the aim of providing a safe, inclusive, and creative environment for gay men and their allies to sing together.[2] Since its formation, BGMC has grown significantly, becoming a visible part of Brighton’s LGBTQ+ cultural scene.

The choir has performed at local, national, and international events, including Brighton Pride, concerts at the Brighton Dome, and collaborations with other choirs across Europe.[3]

Activities and performances

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BrightonGMC typically stages three major shows each year: a fringe show, a Pride concert and a Christmas Panto-style concert. These performances often combine choral arrangements with theatrical elements, humour, and community messaging.[4]

In addition to concerts, the chorus frequently appears at community and charity events, raising funds for local causes such as Lunch Positive, a Brighton-based HIV charity for 2025.[5]

Governance and charity status

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Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus is a registered charity.[1] The organisation is run by a board of trustees elected from within the membership, supported by a artistic and musical director and accompanists.

20th anniversary (2025)

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In 2025, Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus celebrated its 20th anniversary with a year-long programme of special events and performances. Highlights included a large-scale summer concert at the Cairns Theater, Brighton[6] , the release of anniversary merchandise, and collaborations with partner choirs across the UK and Europe.[7]

As part of the celebrations, BGMC also hosted community outreach initiatives, reaffirming its mission to promote inclusivity, diversity, and LGBTQ+ visibility through music.

Recognition

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The choir has been acknowledged for its contribution to Brighton’s cultural life and the wider LGBTQ+ community. In addition to media coverage, has received invitations to perform at civic and commemorative events.[8]

See also

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  1. ^ a b "Brighton Gay Men's Chorus". Charity Commission for England and Wales. Retrieved 19 September 2025.
  2. ^ "Gay men hit the right note". The Argus. 2005. Retrieved 19 September 2025.
  3. ^ "Brighton Dome – Brighton Gay Men's Chorus". Brighton Dome. Retrieved 19 September 2025.
  4. ^ "Brighton Gay Men's Chorus announce Christmas show". Sussex Express. 2023. Retrieved 19 September 2025.
  5. ^ "Lunch Positive supporters". Lunch Positive. Retrieved 19 September 2025.
  6. ^ Andrew Kay (27 July 2025). "Brighton Gay Men's Chorus: Euro Party". The Latest (Brighton). Retrieved 19 September 2025.
  7. ^ "Brighton Gay Men's Chorus celebrates 20 years". The Argus. 2025. Retrieved 19 September 2025.
  8. ^ "Brighton Gay Men's Chorus marks Pride performance". BBC News. 2022. Retrieved 19 September 2025.