Sing Out Loud: Personal Stories from Quorus Members

At the heart of Quorus is a simple idea: everyone deserves a place to raise their voice and feel heard. For many members, this inclusive, affirming community has become far more than a choir—it’s a sanctuary for self-expression, healing, and belonging.

In this month’s feature, we’re sharing the personal stories of two Quorus members, Aaron Sherman and Holly Fisher. Their reflections offer a glimpse into the magic that happens when music meets community.

How It All Began

Both Aaron and Holly discovered Quorus through local outreach—and a spark of curiosity.

Aaron recalls, “When chorus was just starting up, I saw a Facebook post and decided to join. My kids were old enough not to worry about babysitters.” For Holly, it was a post on Newport Out’s Instagram that caught her eye. “I saw the call for LGBTQIA+ singers and I went to the very first sing-along. I could tell right away it was going to be the right place for me." 

What Singing Together Really Means

The impact of singing with Quorus runs deep for both members.

“Singing in community does something physiological to my brain and body,"Holly shares. “It centers me and calms my nervous system. When we come together anytime, I feel less alone. When we come together and sing, we create beauty AND belonging. I leave rehearsals feeling filled up and grounded." 

Aaron adds, “Aside from the incredible friendships I’ve made, Quorus has helped me feel part of something bigger than myself. It’s allowed me to feel more connected to the LGBTQIA+ community here, which I deeply needed.”

Moments That Stay With You

For Aaron, one of the most memorable performances was singing at Newport Pride. “Seeing people stop to listen, some with tears in their eyes—it reminded me why this work matters.”

Holly treasures a quieter moment: “We held a summer campfire singalong last summer . There was music, food, laughter… It was such a warm, beautiful night. That feeling of togetherness was special .”

If Quorus Had a Theme Song…

Aaron didn’t hesitate: “‘True Colors.’ It’s about welcoming people and celebrating who they really are. That’s exactly what Quorus is.”

Holly had a harder time choosing, “We’ve got RANGE! But maybe something like 'You Will Be Found'  or ‘This Is Me’—songs that celebrate  identity and invite others in.”

A Few Fun Facts

Quorus members are as diverse as their harmonies. Aaron shared a fun fact: “Most of my mother’s family arrived via the Mayflower. I’ve got deep roots in this state - my family has been here since the 1600s.”

Holly revealed, “I love to fly kites, I will stop to pet any big dog anytime, anywhere, I'm determined to learn how to surf, I finished a half Ironman triathlon, and I can say super-cali-fragi-listic-expi-ali-docious backwards!" 

Why Quorus Matters

In a time where fear and division can feel overwhelming, both singers emphasized the power of shared voice and visibility.

“I am continuously awed by the courage and talent in this group,” Holly says. “The bravery and vulnerability on display at every level inspires me to be braver and more courageous." 

Aaron agrees: “Quorus isn’t just about singing. It’s about holding space for each other, lifting one another up, and letting people know they’re not alone.”

Final Note

At Quorus, every voice matters. Stories like Aaron’s and Holly’s remind us that when we sing together, we create more than harmony—we create belonging.

Join Quorus Today!