San Diego Chorus Welcomes Guest Coach Sandy Marron for International Competition Preparation6/22/2026  The San Diego Chorus was delighted to welcome internationally renowned coach Sandy Marron to San Diego on June 20-21 for a weekend of musical refinement, education, and inspiration as the chorus continues its preparation for the 2026 SingUnited International Chorus Competition in Columbus, Ohio. Marron, Musical Director of the internationally acclaimed Lions Gate Chorus in Vancouver, British Columbia, is one of the most respected coaches in the barbershop world. A Master 700 Director, Certified Sound Judge, International Faculty member, and International Champion Director, she has spent decades helping singers and choruses unlock higher levels of artistry, performance, and vocal excellence.  Throughout the weekend, Marron partnered with San Diego Chorus Musical Director Dr. Dan Wessler, who also directs the Westminster Chorus, the 2024 Barbershop Harmony Society International Champions. Drawing on their combined decades of experience at the highest levels of the art form, Marron and Wessler guided singers through detailed musical and performance refinement, helping strengthen both the chorus's Semi-Finals and Finals repertoire. The coaching intensive marks another important milestone as the San Diego Chorus prepares to take the international stage for competition in Columbus, Ohio this October. "Having Sandy in the room is a gift," said Dr. Dan Wessler. "Her ability to combine musical excellence with genuine encouragement helps singers discover new possibilities in both the music and themselves. Sandy brings a rare perspective shaped by decades of experience as a champion director, certified judge, educator, coach, and quartet singer. She has a remarkable ability to meet singers where they are, helping them grow in confidence while challenging them to reach for the next level of artistry." The coaching weekend was one of several educational opportunities the San Diego Chorus provides exclusively to its members throughout the year. As part of SingUnited International, formerly known as Sweet Adelines International, the chorus is rooted in a long-standing commitment to preserving, celebrating, and advancing the uniquely American art form of barbershop harmony. While audiences often experience the polished, ringing harmonies that are the hallmark of each performance, the organization's foundation is education. In addition to weekly rehearsals, sectionals, duet and small-group learning opportunities, and regional and international educational conferences, San Diego Chorus members participate in three to four intensive coaching weekends annually. Each immersive event features a different world-renowned educator, coach, judge, or champion performer, offering singers the opportunity to explore new perspectives and deepen their skills in areas such as vocal technique, artistry, performance, musicality, interpretation, and ensemble singing. These coaching intensives are designed not only to prepare the chorus for competition, but also to support the personal growth of every singer, regardless of experience level. By bringing some of the barbershop world's most respected educators directly to San Diego, the chorus continues to invest in a culture of lifelong learning, musical excellence, and shared achievement. For many members, these weekends are among the most impactful educational experiences of the year, combining expert instruction, hands-on application, and the camaraderie that comes from growing alongside fellow singers who share a passion for four-part harmony.
Marron's accomplishments in the barbershop community are extensive. She has served as Musical Director of Lions Gate Chorus since 1991 and led the chorus to the pinnacle of Sweet Adelines competition when they earned the title of International Champion Chorus in 2023. She is also a member of Brava!, the 2004 International Quartet Champions, making her one of a select few individuals to have achieved international championship success as both a director and quartet singer. For the San Diego Chorus, the weekend served as another important milestone on the road to Columbus. After placing 7th Internationally in 2024 and welcoming Dr. Wessler as Musical Director earlier this year, the chorus is continuing to build momentum during its 75th Anniversary season. As October approaches, the singers remain focused on growth, connection, and the pursuit of artistic excellence. The San Diego Chorus will represent Southern California at the 2026 SingUnited International Chorus Competition in Columbus, Ohio, where choruses from around the globe will gather to celebrate the art of four-part a cappella harmony and compete for international honors.
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 Sing United International (SUI) recently announced the appointment of Judy Sadoyama to its DEI Council, a body charged with ensuring that diversity, equity, and inclusion remain a sustained priority across the global Sweet Adelines community. In this international role, Sadoyama will help guide DEI strategy, dialogue, and long-term organizational practices, supporting systems that allow every member to participate fully, authentically, and with a genuine sense of belonging. The Council’s work is rooted in Sing United International’s core principles of creating a culture of belonging, diversity, and Inclusion, which recognize that harmony is strengthened when differing experiences, perspectives, and identities are welcomed and respected.
A Lifetime in Harmony A Sweet Adelines member since 1987, Sadoyama brings nearly four decades of experience as a singer, quartet performer, educator, leader, and volunteer to the role. Her journey through a cappella harmony has spanned multiple choruses, including Na Leo Lani, Honolulu Blend Show Chorus, the San Diego Chorus, and the Greater Cleveland Chorus. Judy was also recently installed as Team Coordinator for Honolulu Blend Show Chorus, returning to chapter administration after several years focused primarily on musical leadership and support roles. In addition to her chapter leadership, Sadoyama serves at the international level, currently leading one of SUI’s Song Assessment teams while also serving on the Chorus Toolkit subcommittee.
Listening Across Cultures Professionally, Sadoyama holds a Bachelor’s degree in secondary education with a specialization in psychology and spent 24 years teaching high school history, psychology, economics, health, and medical terminology at Honolulu’s Farrington High School, where she worked closely with generations of diverse immigrant and multicultural families. That lifelong experience navigating culture, communication, and community deeply informs the perspective she brings to the DEI Council.
“Because Hawai‘i is multi-ethnic and multi-cultural, the climate and attitude surrounding race and even gender identity are entirely different from the rest of the United States and the world,” Sadoyama shared. “I want to bring our unique qualities to the organization, while incorporating the perspectives and experiences of my colleagues.” Sadoyama noted that her work with the Song Assessment Committee helped illuminate how differently DEI conversations are experienced across regions and communities, particularly outside of Hawai‘i. She also expressed excitement about contributing a perspective not previously represented on the Council as an American of Japanese ancestry from Hawai‘i.
Representation Matters While optimistic about the Council’s future work, Sadoyama also acknowledged the complexity of DEI conversations in today’s climate. “One of the biggest issues is that DEI has become politically weaponized and is often viewed as a system that unfairly favors minority groups over others,” she explained. “DEI can cut close to people’s core identities, which always makes change far more challenging.” Sadoyama also emphasized that fostering a culture of belonging is essential to the organization’s long-term health and sustainability. “The opportunity to sing is no longer enough to sustain us,” she said. “If SUI wants to retain and grow its membership in the long term, it must keep pace with the ever-evolving interests and needs of potential members. That means ensuring a culture where people feel valued and welcome.” She added that diverse and equitable communities ultimately strengthen creativity, innovation, and member retention across the organization.
Harmony That Is Lived Sadoyama’s vision for the future remains grounded in connection, representation, and organizational growth. “It is my hope that SUI continues to work toward being a truly international organization,” Sadoyama said. “I also hope that more members stop seeing DEI as a way to foster division and realize that it really comes down to what we all want and deserve: a voice that is heard and a culture that listens.” The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council continues to play an important role in helping Sing United International recognize barbershop music’s African American origins, learn from an exclusionary past, and foster a culture where all members feel welcomed and valued. With Sadoyama’s appointment, the organization deepens its ongoing commitment to creating harmony that is not only sung, but lived
San Diego Chorus Names Dr. Dan Wessler as Musical Director in Milestone 75th Anniversary Year4/15/2026  MEDIA ANNOUNCEMENT - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 15, 2026, San Diego, CA — The San Diego Chorus proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Dan Wessler as its new Musical Director, ushering in a dynamic new chapter as the chorus celebrates its 75th anniversary. A two-time International Champion with Sweet Adelines International, the San Diego Chorus continues its legacy of musical excellence while embracing future-focused artistic leadership. Dr. Wessler brings a rare blend of academic distinction, international performance experience, and championship-level barbershop expertise. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting and Literature from the University of Colorado Boulder and a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Western Illinois University. Dr. Wessler is a choral conductor, educator, arranger, and barbershop musician currently serving as Musical and Artistic Director of the Westminster Chorus, one of the most celebrated ensembles in barbershop history. Under his leadership, Westminster continues its extraordinary legacy as the 2009 “Choir of the World” Pavarotti Trophy winner and a five-time Barbershop Harmony Society International Chorus Champion (2007, 2010, 2015, 2019, 2024). His barbershop credentials are both extensive and distinctive, rooted in the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS). Originally established in 1938, BHS has evolved into a global organization dedicated to preserving and advancing the art of a cappella barbershop singing, with musical education at its core. In 1945, Sweet Adelines International was founded as its sister organization, expanding opportunities for women in the barbershop art form. Since expanding in 2018 to include women’s and mixed ensembles, BHS remains a compelling voice in shaping the future of the art form worldwide. In addition to his work with Westminster, Dr. Wessler serves as adjunct faculty at Concordia University Irvine, where he directs the Donne di Canto women’s chorus and the Men’s Chorus, and as Director of the Continuing Education Chorus at North Orange County Community College. He has led a wide range of ensembles, including university choirs, community choruses, traveling youth ensembles, and elite competitive barbershop groups. A certified Music Judge and faculty member with the Barbershop Harmony Society, Dr. Wessler is also an internationally recognized performer and conductor. He sings bass with After Hours, the 2018 International Barbershop Quartet Champion, and has performed extensively across the United States and abroad, bringing a performer’s perspective and artistry into every rehearsal room he leads. Dr. Wessler is also a sought-after coach for choruses and quartets, working with ensembles around the world to prepare and fine-tune their performances for competition. His work as an arranger is widely respected, with compositions performed on major contest stages and published through Hal Leonard.  Dr. Wessler’s leadership philosophy centers on belonging, positivity, ownership, and growth. He is known for cultivating rehearsal environments where singers feel both supported and challenged, building not only musical excellence but a strong sense of community. The announcement follows the chorus’s recent return from Regional Competition in Phoenix, where they performed for evaluation as part of their preparation for the Sweet Adelines International Competition this October in Columbus, Ohio. The San Diego Chorus has accepted a Wild Card invitation and will compete among the world’s top choruses. “There’s something powerful about a chorus that already knows who it is and continues to prioritize growth,” said Dr. Wessler. “I’m honored to be part of what comes next.” Wessler assumes the role as of May 1, 2026. “This is a moment of both celebration and momentum for our chorus,” said Interim Musical Director Kim Vaughn. “As we honor 75 years of harmony, we are equally focused on the future. Our organization is poised for growth and excited to begin a new season. Dr. Wessler brings the musical depth, leadership vision, and human-centered approach that will help guide us forward.” Vaughn, a 50-year member of the San Diego Chorus, holds the rare distinction of being a three-time International Quartet Champion and Queen of Harmony, with championship quartets including High Society, Savvy, and A Cappella Gold. A Master Director, Judge Emerita in the Sound Category, Sweet Adelines International Faculty member, and Region 21 Hall of Fame inductee, she also received the organization’s Lifetime Achievement Award and achieved the prestigious Master Director 700 designation. Vaughn served as Musical Director of the San Diego Chorus from 1985 to 2014, leading the chorus to its 2001 International Championship after having sung lead in its first championship win in 1975. Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus is one of the premier performing ensembles in the Sweet Adelines organization. The chorus performs award-winning, four-part barbershop harmony, blending musical excellence with vibrant performance and choreography. As a nonprofit performing arts organization, the chorus is dedicated to education, entertainment, and competition. It welcomes women and non-binary treble singers of all backgrounds who share a passion for music and personal growth. Experienced vocalists are welcome to attend casual weekly rehearsals, held on Wednesdays in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado in Balboa Park. With Dr. Wessler at the helm, the chorus looks ahead to its next era with clarity, confidence, and renewed passion and purpose.
 December 15, 2025 - The San Diego Chorus has officially opened the search for its next Musical Director, marking an important step forward for the award-winning a cappella ensemble as it looks toward an ambitious and exciting future. A long-standing chapter of Sweet Adelines International, the San Diego Chorus is recognized for its commitment to high-level music education, artistic excellence, and competitive achievement. In recent seasons, the chorus placed 7th at the 2024 Sweet Adelines International Competition, earned 2nd place at the 2025 Region 21 Golden West Contest, and has accepted a Wild Card invitation to compete internationally in 2026. Interim Leadership and Forward Momentum During the search and transition period, the San Diego Chorus is pleased to share that former director, Sound Judge, and three-time Queen of Harmony Kim Vaughn will serve as Interim Musical Director. Her depth of experience and longstanding leadership within Sweet Adelines provide continuity and confidence as the chorus continues its musical journey. Looking ahead to 2026, singers have much to anticipate. The chorus is preparing for evaluation at Region 21 Golden West and will compete as Contestant #6 at the Sweet Adelines International Competition in October in Columbus, Ohio. The Opportunity The San Diego Chorus is seeking a Musical Director who is an exceptional music educator, a collaborative leader, and a creative visionary. The ideal candidate brings strong vocal pedagogy, deep understanding of the barbershop genre, experience guiding ensembles toward competitive excellence, and a leadership style that is naturally encouraging and grounded in communication, curiosity, and respect. The chorus offers a strong foundation for success, including an established Directors’ Musical Team, dedicated section leaders, and ongoing access to top-tier regional and international educators. Members share a genuine appetite for growth and value a culture of coaching, continuous improvement, and artistic innovation. Selection Process The Musical Director Search will be guided by a dedicated Search Committee led by Co-Committee Chairs Nicole Knox and Connie Mitchell. The committee is comprised of three appointed member representatives, one alternate, and two Ex-Officio members representing the Chorus Management Team (CMT) and the Directors' Musical Team (DMT). This committee structure was designed to balance member representation, musical expertise, and governance oversight, ensuring a thoughtful, transparent, and well-informed search process. The process will include a structured review of applications, interviews, and finalist audition rehearsals. Chorus members will provide feedback through an evaluation process, and the final appointment will be confirmed by a membership vote. Complete details, including the full job description, application requirements, and timeline, are available online. Applications will remain open through January 19, 2026.
NOVEMBER 3, 2024 - The San Diego Chorus returned from the 76th Annual Sweet Adelines Convention & Competition ranked 7th Internationally. Approximately 76 of San Diego's 80 members took the stage in the Semi-Finals, competing against 33 other a cappella choral organizations worldwide. Semi-Finals contest packages are timed and typically feature two songs - an uptune and a ballad. These pieces are arranged and performed in the classic, 4-part a cappella harmony that is a hallmark of the barbershop style. A panel of eight judges evaluates each performance intensely, focused on four key areas that uphold the core tenets of this American art form. San Diego Chorus's scores in the Semi-Finals phase placed them within the top ten, which secured their position in the International Finals. Finals packages showcase each chorus's musical excellence and personality, blending a barbershop number with several contemporary a cappella numbers that feature dynamic arrangements brought to life through creative themes, choreography, costumes, and scripting. The San Diego Chorus Semi-Finals package included the 1918 ballad Smilin' Through, with music and lyrics from Arthur A. Penn and Ed Waesche. This specific version featured a revitalized and never-before-performed a cappella arrangement by Joey Minshall. The chorus's uptune, A Wonderful Day Like Today, is from the 1965 musical The Roar of the Greasepaint, the Smell of the Crowd, and was also arranged by Joey Minshall, The San Diego Chorus Finals package opened with the Jeremy Johnson arrangement of The Greatest Show from the 2017 film The Greatest Showman. The ballad, I Will Never Pass This Way Again (1972, Ronnie Gaylord) was originally arranged in the traditional barbershop style by Clay Hine, and later refreshed by his daughter, Melody Hine. Next up was the crowd favorite I Will Survive (1978, Dino Fekaris / Freddie Perren) a high-energy number most commonly associated with artist Gloria Gaynor, featuring a new arrangement from Rowena Harper. The set concluded with a jubilant rendition of OneRepublic's I Lived (Noel Zancanella / Ryan Tedder). This energetic and memorable finale was arranged by Jeremy Johnson and truly reflects the heart and spirit of this unique chorus. The San Diego Chorus was unique within the competition based on successful efforts to expand chorus membership in recent years, which resulted in nearly 30% of singers being first-timers to the International stage. Choral organizations like many sectors within the performing arts were deeply affected by the pandemic, experiencing impacts to both membership and funding. In recent years, the San Diego Chorus has opted to focus recruitment efforts on expanding diversity in a holistic sense - with a goal of membership that reflects population trends within the San Diego region. The result has breathed new life into the chorus, attracting singers of all ages, ethnic and racial backgrounds, differently-abled individuals, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Participation in an SAI Chorus competition entails approximately 18 - 24 months of focused preparation encompassing vocal and visual coaching, weekly rehearsals, sectionals, and personal practice. Throughout this competitive cycle, the San Diego Chorus has welcomed esteemed coaches from around the country, including:
Chorus members are required to qualify both vocally and visually in several phases to participate in regional and international competitions. Judges within Sweet Adelines International complete a rigorous, multi-year training and qualification track that includes experiential prerequisites, testing, training, and trial scoring in multiple environments. Upon completion and with appropriate recommendations, candidates are eligible for consideration as a Certified Judge. Once certified, Judges commit to ongoing musical education and training as well as regular involvement in regional and international competitions to keep their certification current. The 2024 Sweet Adelines International Chorus Judging Panel was as follows:
The week-long competition and convention also featured the 2024 Quartet Semi-Finals and Finals as well as the Harmony Classic, a competition for midsized choruses with membership ranging from 31 - 60 members. Attendees enjoyed a diverse offering of musical education sessions, with well-known vocal leaders, many of which include small group singing, coaching under glass, and more. Recent recaps and full performances for all divisions and phases of the competition are available for viewing on Sweet Adeline's YouTube channel. 
 The San Diego Chorus was founded in 1951 and is a two-time International Championship organization, earning the titles in 1975 and again in 2002, under the direction of Marvin Yerkey and Kim Vaughn respectively. Throughout the nearly 75-year lifespan of the organization, the organization has won multiple awards at varying levels including within Region 21 Golden West. Region 21 is recognized as one of the most competitive within SAI, encompassing approximately 16 choruses across southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Hawaii. The San Diego Chorus is currently under the direction of Kathleen Hansen.
AUGUST 20, 2023 - The San Diego Chorus recently competed in the Region 21 Golden West Contest and Convention, which was hosted in Albuquerque, New Mexico in March of 2023. The Chorus, which was established in 1952, won second place in the Region with a score of 674, ranking them fifth internationally based on worldwide results released from parent organization Sweet Adelines International. The score earned the chorus a coveted Wild Card invitation to compete internationally in October 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri.
The Wild Card invitation was accepted by Master Director Kathleen Hansen. On August 18th, Sweet Adelines International announced the official Order of Appearance for the upcoming contest, which confirms that the San Diego Chorus will take the stage as contestant #1. The Chorus has a winning track record, and is a two-time International Champion of Barbershop Harmony, having earned the coveted title in 1975 and 2001. Hansen notes that each competitive performance is supported by 12 to 24 months of focused preparation that includes weekly rehearsals, sectional rehearsals, personal practice, vocal and visual coaching. "We are particularly pleased with our 2023 Regional Score, as this was our first live competition since before the pandemic," Master Director Hansen notes. "Over the last several years, many musical organizations have experienced significant setbacks as rehearsals and performances were limited or cancelled altogether. Our singers were determined, continuing to meet virtually and practice individually to preserve and elevate our level of musical excellence. This score affirms that we were successful in accomplishing this goal. We are tremendously proud, and look forward to competing in 2024 with excitement and anticipation." "We are tremendously proud, and look forward to competing in 2024 with excitement and anticipation." Thirty-two choruses will advance to international competition in 2024. Contests are adjudicated by four judges, each of whom intensively evaluate one of the four categories that comprise the overall score: Sound, Music, Expression and Visual Communication. Every competing organization has the potential to earn 100 points per category per song. The total possible points available for a performance is 800. Sweet Adelines International was founded in 1945, and exists to preserve and elevate the American art-form of 4-part a cappella harmony in the Barbershop style. The nonprofit organization, dedicated to music education, is one of the world's largest singing organizations, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States and the world. The San Diego Chorus is a volunteer-led, membership-based choral organization offering a year-round self-paced "soft" audition process. Individuals interested in singing with the award-winning San Diego Chorus are invited to RSVP for their upcoming Guest Open House on September 13th to learn more. The Chorus is currently auditioning women and non-binary singers for all voice parts. All levels of musical experience are welcome.
MAY 8th, 2023 - The award-winning San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International will host open auditions on Wednesday, May 24th from 6:45 PM - 9:45 PM. The chorus performs 4-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. The event, which will be hosted in Room #207 of the Casa Del Prado Building in Balboa Park, offers an overview of the vocal assessment and audition process. Women and non-binary treble singers of all musical backgrounds are welcome. Interested singers are encouraged to RSVP to reserve a spot.  Guests are encouraged to participate immediately in the Chorus warmup and rehearsal process. The evening also includes a private vocal assessment, a brief performance and an educational breakout session. Visitors receive details about the year-round soft audition process, membership, and history about the San Diego Chorus and Sweet Adelines International. Singers who successfully complete the audition process are paired with a chorus mentor and have the support of a year-long Rookie program designed to help singers build relationships and navigate their first year of membership. "The San Diego Chorus provides musical education, coaching and skill development that helps singers grow as musicians, performers and competitors," says Musical Director Kathleen Hansen. "We continuously strive to improve our contest program and expand our repertoire in preparation for upcoming performances." The organization is received a score of 674 in the Region 21 Contest. This score earned them 2nd place and merited a Wild Card Invitation from parent organization Sweet Adelines International. and accepted a Wild Card invitation to compete internationally in Kansas City in 2024. recently awarded a score of 674 in the Region 21 Golden West 2023 Contest, which took place in Albuquerque, NM. This noteworthy score earned them Second Place within the Region. The San Diego Chorus now awaits the outcome of Sweet Adeline's Regional competitions worldwide in hopes that this score will merit an invitation to compete internationally in the Spring of 2024, "Right now is the ideal time to begin our audition and membership process," says Hansen. "Doing so ensures your involvement in our next cycle of vocal and performance coaching, shows and competition." The San Diego Chorus recently celebrated it's 70th anniversary. The organization is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. Membership is open to women and non-binary treble singers of all ethnic and racial backgrounds, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people of varied religions. Marina Hayden serves as Membership Chair for the Chorus. As a 29-year member of the San Diego Chorus and bass of SoloVoce, the 2023 Region 21 Quartet Champion, Hayden brings both history and heart to her role. "Guests arrive so excited about singing and learning more about our unique musical genre - something that we love to see," says Hayden. "What often surprises them are the life-changing relationships that naturally evolve with Chorus membership. Our musical family is like no other! We go out of our way to help each other succeed ... musically and in life. People come for the singing and stay for the friendships." If you would like to learn more about singing with the award-winning San Diego Chorus, RSVP for the May 24th Open House to learn more and begin your audition process. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International performs award-winning, four-part harmony in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the nonprofit performing arts organization entertains in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local education, entertainment and competition. The Chorus welcomes women and non-binary treble singers who share a love of music and dedication to personal and musical growth regardless of age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender expression. Rehearsals are held weekly on Wednesday evenings in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado building in Balboa Park. Additional information can be found on their website at SanDiegoChorus.org. ABOUT SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL Sweet Adelines International is a musical force in the United States and around the world. The organization is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma where it was founded in 1945. This nonprofit music education organization is one of the world's largest singing organizations for women, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, The Netherlands, and Wales. More information is available on the International Web site by visiting, http://www.sweetadelineintl.org. Contact: Andrea Chertkow Business Development Coordinator CMT cell phone #619-823-9631 Email: [email protected] San Diego, CA, November 23, 2020 – The San Diego Chorus is pleased to offer new virtual Singing Holiday Grams! Continued social distancing measures have changed the way that many will celebrate this season, but the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International has created another memorable way to send warm wishes to friends and family near and far. The San Diego Chorus was recently featured on San Diego CBS News 8 segment, The Zevely Zone, discussing how the pandemic has affected them, their rehearsal and performance schedule, and new opportunities to think about fundraising in creative ways. "Our Singing Holiday Grams feature three seasonal winter, Christmas and Hanukkah songs performed virtually in four-part, a cappella harmony,” said Kathleen Hansen, Director of the San Diego Chorus. “We’re going above and beyond to keep the music alive during this uncommon time. Singing Grams help by offsetting the revenue we’ve lost from in-person events, fundraisers and performances.” Senders may choose from three seasonal songs: Jingle Bells, Silent Night or S'vivon. Each Singing Gram includes a personalized message from the sender, making them a unique way to send warm wishes to friends and family. Order one for $59 or save when you bundle up with three for $149. Corporate Holiday Grams are also available for organizations interested in adding a branded touch and personal greeting to clients and colleagues. Singing Grams are delivered digitally via email. Recipients receive a link to view their Holiday Singing Gram message online. Allow a 5-day turnaround for personalization and be sure to order by December 18th for delivery by the 25th. The San Diego Chorus is a 501(c)(3) organization, which makes Gram orders tax-deductible. Easy online ordering and safe virtual delivery will add harmony to your holidays! Schedule your Singing Grams today at: SanDiegoChorus.org/holiday-grams. The San Diego Chorus is already looking ahead to Singing Sweetheart Grams and also plans to release their 2020 holiday show, “Wish You Were Here,” virtually via YouTube and Facebook. The concert will premiere on Saturday, December 19th at 7 p.m. PT with an encore at 2 p.m. PT on Sunday, December 20th. The show will feature a festive collection of new holiday music from their virtual choir, seasonal quartets, favorite performances from holidays past and an online auction. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is a highly trained and talented group of women who sing four-part harmony arranged in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the San Diego Chorus strives to entertain in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local entertainment and offering women of all ages opportunities for musical and personal growth. They welcome all women, regardless of age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender expression, who share a love of music and dedication to musical growth. They meet on Wednesday evenings in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado building in Balboa Park. Additional information can be found on their website at SanDiegoChorus.org. ABOUT SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL Sweet Adelines International is a musical force in the United States and around the world. The organization is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma where it was founded in 1945. This nonprofit music education organization is one of the world's largest singing organizations for women, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, The Netherlands, and Wales. More information is available on the International Web site by visiting SweetAdelines.com. San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International P.O. Box 33365, San Diego, CA 92163 619-796-5162 – SanDIegoChorus.org # # # Contacts: Kathleen Hansen Director, San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines Artistic Director, San Diego Women’s Chorus Email: [email protected] San Diego, CA, NOVEMBER 6, 2020 - The San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International and The San Diego Women's Chorus present a collaborative virtual performance of SING! Under the direction of Kathleen Hansen, each chorus family has found unique ways to thrive and keep the music alive during 2020. The worldwide debut performance recently premiered in the San Diego Women’s Chorus fall show, "Together/Apart: Connecting our Voices in the Age of a Pandemic.” Made famous by Pentatonix (PTX), this energetic, toe-tapping a cappella rendition offers one solution in response to life's problems: SING! This outlook serves as a resounding reminder of the passion for vocal harmony shared by both organizations. Baritone Scott Hoying and vocal percussionist Kevin Olusola of Pentatonix share lead vocals in the original version of this energetic song. They wrote the track in collaboration with Boys Like Girls front man Martin Johnson and songwriter Sam Hollander (Train, One Direction). Kathleen Hansen says, "It was a thrill to bring these two fabulous groups of singers together for this project." As well as directing both choruses, Hansen edited the audio and video for the piece. "The energy, originality, and fun that each singer brought to the final product allowed me to transform these distanced recordings into a beautiful showing of community and resilience," she continued. The impact of distance is devastating to the choral community. During this unique time, each chorus continues to virtually rehearse and has found unique ways to thrive and keep the music alive. Linda Morrow, SDWC Board President shared, "The San Diego Women's Chorus was overjoyed to join our voices with SDSA on "Sing." Especially after canceling our joint June performance this year, we look forward to an opportunity to perform on stage together in the future!" Until the groups can physically sing together again, in-person performances have been halted, so these innovative performances invite the world in to follow and support the San Diego Chorus and the San Diego Women's Chorus. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is a highly trained and talented group of women who sing four-part harmony arranged in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the San Diego Chorus strives to entertain in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local entertainment and offering women of all ages opportunities for musical and personal growth. The Chorus welcomes singers of all ethnic and racial backgrounds, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people from varied religions. The San Diego Chorus hosts weekly open-air rehearsals on Wednesday evenings at Mission Village Church, located at 2650 Melbourne Drive (rear lot), San Diego, CA 92123. Additional information can be found on their website at www.sandiegochorus.org. ABOUT SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL Sweet Adelines International is a musical force in the United States and around the world. The organization is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma where it was founded in 1945. This nonprofit music education organization is one of the world's largest singing organizations for women, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, The Netherlands, and Wales. More information is available on the International Web site by visiting www.sweetadelines.org. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO WOMEN'S CHORUS The San Diego Women’s Chorus (SDWC) is a lesbian-identified, feminist sisterhood of musicians that welcomes members and volunteers from the vastly diverse LGBTQ and straight-ally communities. Founded in 1987 by community activist Cynthia Lawrence-Wallace, SDWC has grown from a group of 14 lesbians gathered around a piano in a private home to a thriving community with over 150 members who believe in the power of music and the power of women. For over 30 years, SDWC has provided a safe space that encourages women’s creativity, celebrates diversity, and inspires social action. San Diego Women’s Chorus is a non-profit community chorus that strives to entertain and inspire audiences with music that speaks to issues as diverse as human rights, love, world peace, religious freedom, environmental harmony, inclusion and cultural diversity. SDWC supports and affirms the music of women, as well as lesbian and gay composers and arrangers. SDWC welcomes all women, gender non-conforming, and transgender individuals to sing with them following an informal audition to demonstrate the ability to match pitch with the piano and hold one’s part in a section. SDWC sings music in the Soprano/Alto range. For more info, visit www.sdwc.org. The San Diego Women’s Chorus PO Box 632794, San Diego, CA 92163 (619) 291-FEMM – www.sdwc.org/ ###  San Diego, CA, September 25, 2020 – The award-winning San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International wants your voice to be heard. The Chorus is hosting a virtual Fall Open House on October 7, 2020 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. PDT. The event, "Our Connection, Our Song" will be held via Zoom.
The San Diego Chorus sings women’s four-part a-cappella music in the barbershop style. The Chorus is open to singers of all ethnic and racial backgrounds, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people from varied religions. Like most arts organizations, the San Diego Chorus shifted rehearsals and events online in March 2020. Even in their new format, they have continued to welcome Guests weekly, and even had singers fully complete the new virtual audition process, adding multiple new members to their ranks. In addition to the weekly ViRehearsals via Zoom, Chorus members continue to practice choreography as well as host music education and social events. Master Director, Kathleen Hansen, says, "As soon as it is safe to meet in person, we will go back to normal chorus rehearsal schedule. In the meantime, we are making the most of this time to stay engaged, develop better skills and create some wonderful content to share." The Chorus has gotten creative in their fundraising, recently launching virtual Birthday and Sweetheart “Singing Grams.” Grams can be Ordered Here and include a personalized greeting from the sender. Options include a doo-wop Birthday greeting and a romantic greeting to the standard, "Let Me Call You Sweetheart." The temporary loss of live performance revenue has a heavy impact on the nonprofit, and the organization is looking to virtual fundraising to help offset costs during this time. Earlier this month, the San Diego Chorus debuted their performance of “Every Woman’s Song,” a collaboration gifted to the Chorus by renowned musicians and songwriters Janis Ian and Angela Aki. That performance has drawn media attention, including a spotlight television and online piece on CBS 8 feature The Zevely Zone in San Diego. Marina Hayden, Fall Open House Chair and Chorus Member says, “I believe that there are many women singers who are needing and wanting the connection that the San Diego Chorus provides, now more than ever.” The night will be structured much like a weekly Chorus "ViRehearsal" and will include an educational breakout session for guests with an overview of a cappella singing and how barbershop fits into the genre, information about Sweet Adelines International and competition; Q&As regarding voice parts and the audition process, featured past performances and more. Anyone interested in attending the Virtual Open House is invited to Register Here. The Chorus New Member Team will connect with visitors in advance, providing Zoom and other helpful details. ABOUT THE SAN DIEGO CHORUS Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is a highly trained and talented group of women who sing four-part harmony arranged in the barbershop style. Twice named International Chorus Champion of Women’s Barbershop Harmony, the San Diego Chorus strives to entertain in many musical genres along with its signature vibrant choreography. Led by Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty, Kathleen Hansen, the San Diego Chorus is dedicated to local entertainment and offering women of all ages opportunities for musical and personal growth. They welcome all women, regardless of age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender expression, who share a love of music and dedication to musical growth. They meet on Wednesday evenings in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado building in Balboa Park. Additional information can be found on their website at www.sandiegochorus.org. ABOUT SWEET ADELINES INTERNATIONAL Sweet Adelines International is a musical force in the United States and around the world. The organization is headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma where it was founded in 1945. This nonprofit music education organization is one of the world's largest singing organizations for women, encompassing more than 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, The Netherlands, and Wales. More information is available on the International Web site by visiting http://www.sweetadelineintl.org. # # # San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International P.O. Box 33365, San Diego, CA 92163 619-796-5162 – www.sdchorus.org |
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CONTACT
619-796-5162 MAILING PO Box 33365 San Diego, CA 92163 NONPROFIT EIN 501c3 95-6095457 AFFILIATIONS Region 21 Golden West SingUnited International COPYRIGHT San Diego Chorus © 2026 All Rights Reserved TERMS & CONDITIONS |
OPEN REHEARSALS
Weekly on Wednesdays 6:45 p.m. - 9:45 p.m. Plan a Visit REHEARSAL LOCATION Casa Del Prado, Room 207 Balboa Park San Diego, CA 92101 Detailed Location Information 45 |
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