Since 1978, our music has made LGBTQ+ lives and experiences more visible. That work continues through concerts, artist collaborations, school visits and community performances.
The Chan National Queer Arts Center gives this work a home and creates space for queer artists and audiences to connect across generations. We honor those who came before us while making room for new voices.
Music in Schools
Music that helps every student belong
RHYTHM (Reaching Youth Through Music) brings our singers into Bay Area middle and high schools. Thirty to forty singers perform, share personal stories about growing up and coming out, and answer student questions.
Since launching in 2018, RHYTHM has reached nearly 15,000 students across the Bay Area. Visits are booked through our partner, Young Audiences of Northern California.
SingOut
Music for the moments that bring us together
Through SingOut, our volunteer singers make up to 50 community appearances a year, from civic ceremonies and festivals to benefits that have helped raise more than $430,000 for local nonprofits and health organizations.
Recent moments include opening day three at Outside Lands and a final song for Senator Feinstein in the City Hall rotunda.
Tours
Music beyond San Francisco
On the road since 1981, we tour with local choruses, schools and community organizations to share music and support LGBTQ+ belonging.
The 2024 Love Tour brought three free concerts to Iowa and Nebraska. The 2017 Lavender Pen Tour through the Deep South became the documentary Gay Chorus Deep South, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2019.
In the news
Impact stories
A Night of Rising Together
A Night of Rising Together
Read More
Outside Lands Was Unforgettable!
Outside Lands Was Unforgettable!
Read More
A Community Heart Finds a Home at the Chan
A Community Heart Finds a Home at the Chan
Read More
Frameline Industry Day at the Chan
Frameline Industry Day at the Chan
Read More
Get Ready to Be Hooked on HomoPhonics
Get Ready to Be Hooked on HomoPhonics
Read More
Crescendo 2026: A Record $1.65 Million for Music and Community
Crescendo 2026: A Record $1.65 Million for Music and Community
Read More
Singing for the People Advancing HIV Research
Singing for the People Advancing HIV Research
Read More
Love Songs (And Other Myths): Highlights
Love Songs (And Other Myths): Highlights
Read More
A Final Song for Senator Dianne Feinstein
A Final Song for Senator Dianne Feinstein
Read More
JOIN THE CONDUCTOR’S SOCIETY
Make the Music Possible
Your gift brings music to the stage, schools and community. Choose a one-time or monthly gift below—every amount makes a difference.
Join the Conductor’s Society with an annual gift of $180+ or a recurring gift of $15+/month. Members receive early access to tickets and events.