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When Kim Vaughn first walked into a Sweet Adelines rehearsal, she didn’t expect it to change her life. Talked into attending by her mother—under the threat of losing babysitting privileges—she imagined “a bunch of old ladies singing badly in ugly costumes.” What she found instead was music that resonated so deeply that she instantly knew she had found her fit. “I felt like I had come home,” Vaughn remembers. “I thought: This is my place, these are my people.” That moment marked the beginning of a journey now spanning five decades, during which Vaughn has transformed from a reluctant recruit into one of the most celebrated and influential figures in the Sweet Adelines International community.
A Career of Firsts Vaughn’s accomplishments are unmatched in their breadth. She is a three-time International Quartet Champion and Queen of Harmony, having earned gold with High Society (1976), Savvy (1988), and A Cappella Gold (2001). She sang lead when the San Diego Chorus was named International Champions in 1975, and later, as director, led the same chorus to their second International Championship in 2001. Her musical excellence is complemented by her leadership: nearly 30 years as the director of the San Diego Chorus, a Certified Sound Judge, a Master Faculty member, and recipient of the 2014 Sweet Adelines International Lifetime Achievement Award. Vaughn was also named to the Region 21 Hall of Fame and has been designated a Master Director 700, recognizing the highest levels of musical achievement. Finding a Voice, Finding a Calling From the earliest days, Vaughn was drawn to the power of barbershop harmony. “I was one of those altos who was always too loud,” she laughs. “Suddenly, I could be a lead!” She was quickly handed leadership responsibilities as well—first as a section leader, then as a quartet member—discovering a natural aptitude for guiding others. Her early quartet experiences, particularly with High Society, proved pivotal. When the group unexpectedly placed fourth at their first International competition, the medal was more than an accolade. “It’s funny how you step up to it,” Vaughn recalls. “If I’m going to be a fourth-place international medalist, I better know what I’m doing.” From that point forward, she immersed herself in learning—attending every coaching session, every school, every class. “I never missed anything. I just wanted to know everything as fast as I could.” A New Season of Leadership Vaughn never set out to be a director. But when Connie Noble, then interim director of the San Diego Chorus, offered to swap responsibilities, Vaughn realized she had both the skills and passion to lead. Her three decades at the helm were transformative—for the chorus and for her. “I grew so much as a director,” she reflects. “The thing I had to work out the most was the people skills part of it—realizing how much it matters to appreciate the individual, to say thank you, to build confidence. The more confident the singers are, the more confident the director is.” Though she once thought quartets would always be her first love, Vaughn discovered the chorus brought a deeper fulfillment. “The chorus actually took place number one instead of the quartets. It became my primary thing.” A Teacher, a Judge, a Mentor As Vaughn’s experience grew, so did her role as educator and mentor. Coaching choruses and quartets worldwide, she became known for her clarity, encouragement, and ability to prioritize. “The payback is not the money you earn from coaching,” she says. “It’s what happens when the singer gets it. When they come back they're so excited because they understood—and not only that, they realized they could successfully do it.” Her role as a Certified Sound Judge added another layer of influence. “Judging is a different skill set,” she explains. “You have to evaluate, write clearly and succinctly, but kindly. And you have to be helpful—in six minutes, on two songs. It’s an interesting combination of skills.” For Vaughn, judging was never about prestige but about responsibility: “I do it because I think it’s important to advance our art form.”  Sound Judge in Region 1
 Judy Pozsgay, Vickie Mayberry and Kim Vaughn clearly having zero fun. The Power of Mentorship Vaughn is quick to credit those who invested in her—particularly coaches Joni Bescos and Carolyn Butler. Joni was pragmatic and precise; "Carolyn was deeply emotional and singer-focused. “They shaped me in such different ways,” Vaughn reflects. Beyond formal mentors, she also drew inspiration from peers and role models across the Sweet Adelines world, learning leadership, kindness, musicality, and resilience. Her philosophy is simple: Invest in others. “It has always bothered me when people are successful and then walk away,” she says. “You learned all this—why not pay it forward? The only successful pyramid scheme in the world is education. If I know and I teach you, now we both know. Then we both teach. That’s how everybody gets better.”  Kim coaching the Scottsdale Chorus with Aaron Dale.
Family, Harmony, and Joy For Vaughn, Sweet Adelines is more than music—it is family. “I don’t think we have a clue when we join that we are joining a family,” she says. Over the decades, that family has celebrated her triumphs, supported her through hardships, and filled her home with love. Holidays at the Vaughn house often included singers who had nowhere else to go. “It just becomes second nature,” she says. “There’s a place for all of us.” That sense of belonging and joy remains her deepest takeaway. “Joy is what I still feel about Sweet Adelines,” she reflects. “It has brought me enough joy for several lifetimes.”
Looking Ahead Now, as she reflects on her half-century milestone, Vaughn is focused less on her own legacy and more on the future. She delights in the passion and skill of new members, their bravery, and their willingness to push boundaries. “They want everything—and I don’t blame them a bit. Let’s do everything!” Her message to the next generation is equal parts encouragement and challenge: embrace growth, experiment, and give back. “Whatever they can think of that they want to be, they really can. We need new ways of looking at things. That’s why I love to hear what they have to say. If there’s anything I can do to help them, I want to do it.”  Region 11 Judging Panel
A Legacy in Full Voice From reluctant recruit to international champion, from section leader to master director, from student to mentor, Kim Vaughn’s 50 years with Sweet Adelines is a story of transformation—of herself, of her chorus, and of the art form she loves. “I didn’t know when I joined that I was going to change so much,” she says. “But I did. Completely changed. Better than I ever thought I could be.” And that may be Vaughn’s greatest gift to Sweet Adelines: Proof that through harmony, hard work, and community, transformation is possible—for singers, for leaders, and for the organization itself.
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 Diana began her 50-year journey with Sweet Adelines the same year as Kim Vaughn. When Diana Riley first heard the Santa Monica Chorus sing on Valentine’s Day more than five decades ago, something inside her shifted. “I was hooked the first moment I heard them,” she recalls. “I didn’t care what people said — I knew I was going to sing.” That spark ignited a journey spanning 50 years with Sweet Adelines International — a journey filled with harmony, leadership, travel, and friendships that have sustained her life in and out of music.
 Diana Riley was honored at a luncheon to celebrate 50 years of Sweet Adelines Membership in September of 2025. Voice Discovered, Confidence Found Diana didn’t arrive at Sweet Adelines with a confident voice. “All my life, I had been told I couldn’t sing,” she says. “But when I auditioned, they told me, ‘You’re a bass. You can sing — you just weren’t singing what they wanted you to sing.’” It was validation she hadn’t expected. While she experimented with other parts — lead and baritone — bass became her lasting home. Her musical background gave her a foundation to build on: orchestra with an emphasis on cello.
Raised on Rhythm and Rodeo Though she didn’t step onto the risers until adulthood, Diana had been steeped in showmanship since childhood. Her grandparents met while performing with the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show, traveling the country with rope tricks, whips, and stunts. Her parents followed as professional entertainers, touring with the WesternAires. Her father performed with Bob Hope for U.S. troops during World War II. Diana’s father even began as a Western stuntman — his first role was flying off a horse at seven months old. “I was the kid backstage living in a trunk,” she laughs, recalling her upbringing surrounded by costumes and performers. That immersion gave her confidence under bright lights and comfort onstage. As a young woman, she trained and performed on the cello, even performing Aaron Copland’s *Billy the Kid* with the San Jose Philharmonic — while also dancing in the same production. Movement, as much as music, shaped her artistry and later gave her the courage to audition for the front row in several choruses, where choreography is as vital as vocal power. “I miss the movement and dance part,” she admits. “That was always such a joyful piece of performing for me.”   Diana most recently competed internationally with the San Diego Chorus in Kansas City in 2024.  A Village of Song Her Sweet Adelines journey took her through multiple choruses — Santa Monica, Simi Valley, ChannelAires, Verdugo Hills, and San Diego — across both Region 11 and the (then) newly formed Region 21. Wherever she landed, she found more than music: she found community. “The people are so incredible,” Diana says. “They helped me raise my two kids. I’d bring them to chorus, or quartet rehearsal, and everyone just pitched in.” In Simi Valley, her chorus wasn’t just a singing group but a village. “We put on weddings. We had a baker, a lady from Hawaii who did all the flowers, and of course, the entertainment. We sang for everything. It was an incredible chorus.”
Stages Across the World Diana competed internationally numerous times, including multiple trips to Hawaii and performances with choruses that reached the top ten. International travel became one of the hallmarks of her barbershop career. She toured Scotland and Wales, with her mother by her side. “We’d get in, and within an hour we’d have to be ready for a gig. My mom was handing me costumes and makeup. I don’t know how people managed without their mothers,” she laughs. Trips to Japan and China followed, expanding her circle of friends worldwide. “I’ve met so many people internationally. Even if you only see them for a few days, those friendships last. It gives you a broader sense of people and the world.”  Quartets, Sisters, Lifelong Bonds Diana has sung in many quartets, but “Girls’ Night Out” remains the dearest. “We were all brand new - we even won the novice quartet award,” she recalls. “We had so much fun together," she says. Decades later, they still meet regularly. Other quartets came and went, sometimes formed around mother and daughter duos, but what mattered most were the bonds created. “They’re lifelong friends. Those connections never fade.”
 Leading With Purpose Beyond singing, Diana’s leadership has left an enduring mark at every level of Sweet Adelines. In her choruses, she served in nearly every imaginable role — from Board President and Membership to Business Development, Fundraising, Events, Front Row Choreography, Makeup, and Costuming. “The only jobs I never touched were finance and secretary,” she laughs. “Those skills definitely weren’t in my wheelhouse.” At the regional level, she coordinated transportation for conferences and oversaw videotaping of educational sessions, turning them into valuable resources for choruses. “I really enjoyed the regional work,” she says. “It made me feel like I was contributing to something bigger than myself.” For Diana, leadership is about more than titles or tasks — it’s about ensuring the vitality of the organization she loves. “It takes all of us being willing to contribute beyond the singing,” she emphasizes. “That’s how our organization continues to be diverse, dynamic, and growing.”  From Rigid Rules to New Rhythms Over 50 years, Diana has seen the organization transform. “It was more rigid back then,” she reflects. “Now we’re more fluid, more accepting. The changes in culture, costuming, and makeup have been good for us. The growth has been very educational.” She also believes the pandemic, though difficult, sparked innovation. “COVID actually helped us learn to use the internet to recruit and connect,” she explains. “Now we’re bringing in younger members, even people in their twenties. That wasn’t happening when I started.” Still, she sees room to grow. “I’m an advocate of seeing all choruses do more sing-outs — small groups in public spaces. That type of visibility connects us to people and opportunities. We need to be out there, exposing people to our art form and community.”  The Joy That Keeps Her Coming Back Even after decades of late-night rehearsals and long drives, Diana finds renewed joy in singing. “I always feel better after rehearsal,” she says. “Even when I’m tired, the chorus lifts you up.” She acknowledges the challenges — her commute is over an hour — but the music and community make it worthwhile. “The support is fantastic. I try to invite as many people into Sweet Adelines as possible. I just wish my home chorus were a bit closer these days.” When she looks back, it’s clear what Sweet Adelines has given her: a life rich in harmony, friendship, and purpose. “It’s made my life bigger,” she reflects. “I have friends around the world, confidence in myself, and memories I wouldn’t trade for anything.” Fifty years may seem like a long time, but for Diana Riley, it’s simply been life lived in four-part harmony.
The San Diego Chorus welcomes interested women and non-binary singers to visit and participate in our open weekly rehearsals anytime, year-round. Several times a year, we host a Singer Open House, a special evening designed to help prospective members experience the joy of singing 4-part a cappella harmony and learn more about our vocal assessment and self-paced, "soft" audition and membership pathway. If you plan to visit during a Singer Open House or any other rehearsal, please RSVP to let our team know so we can be standing by to greet you. Here are some helpful answers to frequently asked questions from guests and prospective members. Our goal is to provide a welcoming, inclusive experience that makes you feel right at home from start to finish. If you have any questions or accessibility needs, please reach out so we can ensure your visit is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Frequently Asked Questions
 ENJOY A SHORT PERFORMANCE If you visit during a Guest Open House, we'll invite you to take a seat in the audience so that our singers may perform a few of our favorite numbers for you to enjoy. This is a great way to get a sense of our overall sound and how music and movement work together for our chorus.
JANUARY 10, 2024 - The award-winning San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International will host open auditions on Wednesday, January 31st 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 audition and membership pathway. Women and non-binary treble singers of all musical backgrounds are welcome. Interested singers are encouraged to RSVP to reserve a spot. Guests are invited to participate immediately in the Chorus warmup and rehearsal process. The interactive evening sometimes 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. Watch this video to know what to expect when you visit during an Open House.
"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 was awarded 2nd place in March of 2023 at the Region 21 Contest. This score earned them 2nd place and merited a Wild Card Invitation from parent organization Sweet Adelines International. The Chorus is currently ranked 5th worldwide and will compete on the International Stage in October of 2024. The event will be hosted in Kansas City, and features an adjudicated contest for both quartets and choruses. A recent order of performance announcement from Sweet Adelines International revealed that the San Diego Chorus will be the first chorus to take the stage in the 2024 competition. "It's an exciting time to begin our audition and membership process," says Hansen. "Qualified singers will enter our competitive cycle with enough time to join us on the International Stage. Moreover, they will benefit from valuable vocal production and performance coaching as part of our preparation." The San Diego Chorus will soon celebrate it's 75 year 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. Claudia Cannon is a 29-year member of Sweet Adelines International. She has been a member of the San Chorus since 2006 and serves as Membership Chair for the Chorus. Previously, Cannon was a member of the Greater Auckland Chorus and the Na Leo Lani Chorus, which she directed from 2004-2007. Cannon also serves as the Marketing Coordinator of the Region 21 Management Team. "The San Diego Chorus offers tremendous opportunities for growth, both musically and personally," says Cannon. "What people may not immediately realize is that there is much more happening here than just high-level singing! There's leadership development, community service and competitive accomplishment. But at the heart of it all is deep community among our members that often spans a lifetime." If you would like to learn more about singing with the award-winning San Diego Chorus, RSVP for the January 31st Open House to learn more and begin your audition process.
 October 4, 2021 - While in her twenties, Sue Clay suffered a broken ankle in a skiing accident. After a long recovery, she decided that singing might be considerably less dangerous. This is how Sue discovered a cappella singing at 26 years old. She is self-taught and doesn’t read music or play an instrument. “When I was growing up I was told I couldn’t sing, ” Sue says. “I wasn’t allowed to sing at church or school … but I always wanted to. I guess I showed them!” She laughs at the memory. In 2021, the San Diego resident celebrated 50 years of membership with Sweet Adelines International (SAI). SAI performs competitive 4-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. Sue has fond memories of traveling with the chorus. Over the course of her musical career, she has sung with two Sweet Adeline choruses: Torrey Pines (1971-79) and the San Diego Chorus (1979 – present). Although Sue began her singing career as a lead vocalist and later sang baritone, her longest tenure has been as a bass. Kathleen Hansen serves as Master Director of the San Diego Chorus. “Sue has been an invaluable member of the San Diego Chorus for decades and can usually be found singing near the center of the chorus,” Hansen says. “Her lovely bass voice has natural resonance that matches everyone that she sings with, earning her the moniker of the Universal Bass.” In 2000, Sue was diagnosed with a brain tumor that later required surgery. It was a difficult season, she remembers, but could have been much worse. Sue sang throughout her recovery, which included the 2001 Sweet Adelines International Competition in Portland, Oregon. That year the San Diego Chorus was named International Champions, the second championship title for the chorus since they were established in 1951. The Portland show was a memorable one for many reasons, including a minor misstep that resulted in Sue slipping off the back of the risers. “I was absolutely fine,” Clay says with a grin. “The show went on … but I’ll never forget it.” What she remembers most about that particular performance is the feeling of excitement when stepping onto the International stage. “There were these long, sheer curtains on either side of the chorus. As we walked on stage, we flung them aside and stepped in time. There was a distinct cadence … like a stomp,” she says. “It was such an entrance! You could feel the excitement building before we even sang our first note.” Kim Vaughn is a three-time International Quartet Champion, Queen of Harmony and directed the San Diego chorus from 1985-2015. “Sue draws other voices in, helping them find their place and shine. “ says Vaughn. “She is a naturally responsive singer with an intuitive ear. You can always rely on Sue to have it right, and she works hard at that.” Sue is known by her singing family for being kind and direct – a person who says what she means and means what she says. An avid seamstress, Sue worked on chorus costumes for many years. She currently serves on the riser team, helping to set up and break down equipment for weekly rehearsals and performances. Sue estimates that over the years she has easily sung with more than 25 quartets, some of whom have sung competitively. “It’s fun singing with a smaller group and being solely responsible for your own part,” Sue says. “We had some wonderful times traveling and performing.” In addition to traveling across the U.S., Clay fondly recalls a trip to Hawaii when her quartet was invited to teach barbershop singing at a college, as well as a trip to Ireland. In her early years of traveling she was determined to not miss a single moment of each competition. “Every class, workshop and performance, I was there. After the performance, I stayed for the afterglow - I didn’t want to miss a thing,” Clay says. “Suddenly it was 3 a.m., and I needed to get back to my hotel room, which was on the 34th floor. There was a small problem, though – I hate elevators. That year’s outgoing International Quartet Champions, the Bronze Tones, made sure I made it safely to my room. They rode that elevator all the way to the top with me, and we sang the whole way!” Barbershop singers are just ‘good people,’ Sue says. Not surprisingly, the pandemic brought chorus performances and competitions worldwide to a temporary halt over the last two years. As a result, Sweet Adelines International was unable to acknowledge Clay’s 50 year milestone from the International Stage, a celebrated and time-honored tradition. Sue’s San Diego Chorus family made sure her anniversary didn’t pass without celebration. A cherished group of close friends orchestrated a small surprise luncheon, presenting Sue with her 50 year pin from Sweet Adelines International. She also received a golden glass sculpture of a treble clef from the San Diego Chorus. Of course there was singing on that day, too. Sue is grateful for the countless friendships that have come from singing barbershop music for 50 years. On both good days and bad, Sue cannot remember a time when she didn’t choose to sing. “When things are hard in life, singing is where I go. This is what makes me happy,” Sue said. “I do it for the joy factor and never intend to stop.” 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. The San Diego Chorus announces return to live rehearsals with summer evenings under the stars!6/22/2021  San Diego, CA - June 22, 2021: The San Diego Chorus is thrilled to announce their highly anticipated return to in-person rehearsals! Beginning Wednesday, July 7, 2021 the San Diego Chorus will resume weekly live rehearsals on Wednesdays from 6:45 PM - 9:45 PM. The Chorus will temporarily meet in the rear parking lot of Mission Village Christian Fellowship at 2650 Melbourne Drive, San Diego 92123.  The open-air rehearsal format takes advantage of San Diego’s warm summer evenings and allows for social distancing. Singers should bring water, a chair if desired and a light jacket or sweatshirt. Restrooms are available. No masks are required for vaccinated singers. The chorus hopes to return to their usual Balboa Park indoor rehearsal space at a later date when current renovations have been completed.  Since their last in-person rehearsal on March 11, 2020, the San Diego Chorus has developed a high-engagement approach to virtual rehearsals. Led by Master Director Kathleen Hansen, weekly rehearsals focus on strengthening vocal skills, refining new and existing music and choreography and features occasional guest coaches. The Chorus has continued old traditions in new formats with a virtual Holiday Show, and their recent June 12th summer show, “As Long As I’m Singin.’” During the hiatus, the San Diego Chorus continued to welcome new singers and added 6 new “virtual” members to their ranks. The organization is pleased to have retained 85% of their membership over the last 15 months.  Like many arts-based organizations, social distancing measures have impacted fundraising activities. The San Diego Chorus pursued new opportunities to help close the gap, Among them are the introduction of Singing Grams and hosting online “Yum Raisers” with See’s Candies. As the organization returns to in-person performances, the new virtual additions will remain a part of their standard offerings.
San Diego Chorus is a nonprofit volunteer organization funded by grants, fundraising and member dues. For those interested in singing, upcoming events and sponsorship, learn more at www.SanDiegoChorus.org. 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. San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International P.O. Box 33365, San Diego, CA 92163 619-796-5162 –www.sandiegochorus.org  San Diego, CA, January 13, 2021: The award-winning San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International wants you to shine in 2021. The Chorus is hosting their Winter Open House, virtually on January 27, 2021 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. PDT. The event, "New Year, New Start, New You" will be held via Zoom. Visitors may learn more and RSVP at SanDiegoChorus.org/SING.
The San Diego Chorus is looking for all women and other marginalized genders from all walks of life who get joy from singing and performing. Master Director, Kathleen Hansen, says, "Although we are physically separated we continue to meet and rehearse virtually and develop our musical skills. We’ve adapted our auditioning process, developed alternative fundraising methods, and have created memorable virtual performances." Last month, the San Diego Chorus debuted their first virtual concert “Wish You Were Here” which garnered praise from all over the globe. Their performance of “Every Woman’s Song,” a collaboration gifted to the Chorus by renowned musicians and songwriters Janis Ian and Angela Aki has drawn a lot of media attention, including a spotlight television and online piece on CBS 8 feature The Zevely Zone in San Diego. Marina Hayden, Membership Coordinator and Chorus Member says, "The beginning of the new year is the best time to give another chance to your neglected talents. Let yourself sing! Our chorus allows members to learn, grow, challenge themselves and be a part of a singing family." The night will be structured much like the weekly "ViRehearsals" and will include an educational breakout session for guests including an explanation of what a cappella singing is, and how barbershop fits in the genre; information about Sweet Adelines International and competition; questions answered regarding voice parts, and more. 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. # # # San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International P.O. Box 33365, San Diego, CA 92163 619-796-5162 – www.sandiegochorus.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 “Once you’ve heard the ‘ring’ of a four-part barbershop chord, you’ll never forget the experience,” says San Diego Chorus Director Kathleen Hansen, a Sweet Adelines International member for more than two decades. “A cappella singing is an art form that helps musicians develop a complex skillset that often starts with enjoying the rich sound of vocal harmony.” The San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International celebrates a 70+ year history that includes two international championship titles and a multitude of regional competition medals. At first glance, its 80+ singers reflect a broad demographic spectrum in terms of musical background, education and age. The deep bonds within the chorus are immediately evident, and a closer look reveals many compelling reasons that membership has been growing steadily in recent years. Beyond the documented wellness benefits of choral singing, many musicians describe a cappella singing as a transformational art form and a lifelong journey.  Twelve Fantastic Reasons to Sing with the San Diego Chorus 1. We are connected. Togetherness is everything for us: building friendships and sharing laughter, music, and experiences. 2. We are always changing. Development is ongoing for personal musical growth, from the technical to the artistic. 3. We get creative. Creativity is innate to our self-expression through innovative costuming, choreography, and scripts. 4. We all belong. With everyone included, belonging and diversity are respected and encouraged. 5. We love the spotlight. Performances and community outreach help us share our joy and music with all kinds of audiences. 6. We feel good. The health benefits abound, with emotional and physical outlets that help lower stress and promote overall well-being. 7. We are continuous learners. Each rehearsal or personal practice is an exploration in education; our director, chorus, and regional and international organizations provide special workshops, vocal instruction, and educational events. 8. We are going places. Adventures always await us, with annual activities, both local and with regional, national, and international travel. 9. We use “quartet” as a verb. We sing four-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style, either individually or in a section, including opportunities to participate in quartets in regional and international competitions. 10. We span decades. Not only is our chorus 70+ years old, we enjoy and benefit from a multigenerational influence among our members. 11. We lead the way. Leadership opportunities - building confidence and skills - are available for every member, and the chorus enjoys bringing new ideas to the Sweet Adelines International organization. 12. We support each other. Generous support at all stages of membership, from our Rookie Team to Emeritus status, is key, as well as our contributions as a non-profit organization benefitting musical education for young singers.  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 rehearsals on Wednesday evenings at the Casa Del Prado, Room #207, located in beautiful 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 www.sweetadelines.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 Sweet Adelines 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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