Pride and Harmony: The Journey of Quorus in Newport

Music has the power to unite people, celebrate authentic voices, and strengthen the bonds of our community. One of the most inspiring examples of that mission in action is Quorus, Newport’s inclusive LGBTQ+ vocal ensemble.

Formed with the vision of creating a safe, welcoming space for LGBTQ+ singers and allies, Quorus is more than just a choir—it’s a community. Through shared song and collective storytelling, Quorus members explore themes of pride, resilience, and joy while making beautiful music together.

A Vision for Inclusion

Quorus began with a simple but powerful idea: everyone deserves a place to sing and belong. Many LGBTQ+ singers have experienced choral spaces where they felt they couldn’t bring their full selves to rehearsal. Quorus set out to change that.

By centering inclusivity in everything they do—from repertoire choices to rehearsal practices—Quorus creates a space where every voice is valued. It’s not just about sounding good (though they certainly do!); it’s about affirming the identities and experiences of all who join.

Music That Tells Our Stories

Repertoire is at the heart of Quorus’s mission. Each season, the group selects music that resonates with the LGBTQ+ experience and speaks to broader themes of love, struggle, and celebration.

You might hear moving choral arrangements of queer anthems, contemporary works by LGBTQ+ composers, and classic pieces reimagined through a modern, inclusive lens. The result is a concert experience that is both artistically rich and emotionally powerful—a testament to the way music can give voice to stories too often left untold.

More Than Rehearsals: Building Community

While Quorus meets to rehearse and perform, the ensemble’s impact goes far beyond the music. Members describe rehearsals as a place of laughter, connection, and healing. Social events, shared meals, and community-building activities help deepen the bonds between singers.

These connections strengthen the music itself. A group that knows and supports each other sings with more trust, emotional depth, and unity—qualities that audiences can feel in every performance.

Sharing Pride with the Community

One of Quorus’s defining traditions is performing in the Newport Pride festival and other LGBTQ+ community events. These performances are more than concerts; they’re declarations of belonging and solidarity.

By lifting their voices at Pride, Quorus members share their joy and resilience with the wider community, helping create a more accepting, connected Newport.

An Invitation to Join

If you’re looking for a place to sing, belong, and be yourself, Quorus is always eager to welcome new members. You don’t need professional training—just a love of music and a commitment to inclusion.

Quorus rehearses weekly on Aquidneck Island and is part of the larger Newport Sings family of ensembles. Whether you’re an LGBTQ+ singer or an ally who wants to stand in solidarity through song, there’s a place for you here.

Supporting the Work

Ensembles like Quorus depend on the support of our broader community. Donations, sponsorships, and volunteer efforts help keep rehearsals accessible, fund sheet music, secure performance venues, and allow us to bring inclusive choral music to Newport and beyond.

If you’d like to support Quorus and Newport Sings in our mission to create music that builds community and celebrates diversity, consider making a donation or attending our next performance.

Join Us in Pride and Harmony

At its heart, Quorus is a celebration of authenticity, community, and the transformative power of music. We’re proud to share this journey with Newport and invite you to be part of it—whether on stage, in the audience, or as a supporter of the arts.

Learn more about Quorus and all our programs at NewportSings.org/programs.

Learn more about our exciting programs