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Unison: Windy City Lesbian and Gay Singers is an ensemble of women and men who challenge the traditional expectations that people have of choral music. The seed for Unison was planted in 1992 when the women's ensemble MUSE, from Cincinnati, came to Chicago for a joint concert with Windy City Gay Chorus. The groups developed a strong affection for each other, which led to the idea of creating a mixed chorus of men and women. Unison made its concert debut at Don We Now...XIV later that year, and sang its inaugural concert in April 1993 with recording artists Chris Williamson and Tret Fure as guests.

 

Since that beginning, Unison has established itself as a musically adept addition to the Windy City Performing Arts family. Unison has received rave reviews for its superb singing, including the Windy City Times review of their March 1996 performance, which raved that: "Unison's smooth lush harmony thrilled the bones... Mixed choruses often sound bland and treacly but Unison sang complex harmonies that soared and their high infectious energy lent sparkle." In the spring of 1999, Unison gained national acclaim by winning the 1999 Gay and Lesbian American Music Award (GLAMA) for Best Choral Recording for their rendition of "Jingle Bells" on the WCPA holiday CD, “Glad Tidings We Bring!”

 

Outreach has always been a part of Unison's vision and goals. In the summer of 1998, Unison had their first opportunity to sing a joint concert with the Lesbian and Gay Chorus of Washington, D.C. Other accomplishments include singing at Chicago's Lesbian Community Cancer Project fund-raiser, the City of Chicago’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in 2002 at Daley Plaza, and concerts at area universities and fundraising dinners.

 

Unison has become known throughout the Chicago area as a premier women’s and men’s performing arts ensemble that represents and values diversity in the communities they serve. Unison is committed to the highest possible musical standards across a broad range of repertoire and performance styles, and continually strives to excel musically throughout the Chicago area, receiving recognition both locally and nationally.

 

Unison Vision Statement

Unison will be known throughout the Chicago area as a women’s and men’s choral organization that represents and values diversity in the communities we serve. We are committed to the highest possible musical standards across a broad range of repertoire and performance styles. We will excel throughout the Chicago area and will keep our sights on national recognition.
 

 We will realize this vision by:

  • Seeking ways to diversify our membership.

  • Performing music from diverse sources to complement traditional choral repertoire.

  • Searching for new ways to reach and expand our audiences.

  • Continually improving our musical skills in rehearsal and performance.

  • Seeking venues for outreach concerts.

  • Taking time for self-evaluation and recognition of our accomplishments.

Undertaking recording projects to enhance our reputation. Providing opportunities for gays and lesbians and gay-and lesbian-friendly members to achieve this vision.