Sweet Adelines International Appoints Judy Sadoyama to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council5/14/2026  Sweet Adelines International (SAI) 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 Sweet Adelines 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 Sweet Adelines journey 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 SAI’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 SAI 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 SAI 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 Sweet Adelines 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
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 The contributions of the 2025-26 Chorus Management Team (CMT) were honored. The San Diego Chorus held its annual Awards and Installation Dinner on Wednesday, April 29 at the Casa del Prado in Balboa Park. The event recognizes member contributions and marks the transition of leadership within the member-led nonprofit organization. The evening was emceed by Tracy Popenhagen, co-leader of the chorus DEI committee. Entertainment was provided by chapter quartet Nick of Time, featuring Lori Shelley (tenor), Nicole Knox (lead), Nicole Clement (baritone), and Leah Rippetoe (bass), who performed their 2026 Regional Contest set. Leadership Recognition and Installation Outgoing Chorus Management Team (CMT) members Jennifer French, Andrea Chertkow, and Amy Buck were recognized for their service. The 2026–27 CMT was then installed. Continuing members include Pam Murray, Lisa Ordonez, and Diane Thornewell. Newly elected members are Cecily Taylor, Tracy Popenhagen, and Laurie Bokuniewicz. Newly appointed Musical Director Dr. Dan Wessler will also serve on the CMT. The team provides strategic guidance for the organization’s governance, business, and operational functions.  The 2026-27 San Diego Chorus Management Team was installed. Director's Music Team The Directors Music Team was recognized for its role in supporting musical and performance development across the chorus. The team includes newly appointed Musical Director Dan Wessler, Kim Vaughn, who will transition from Interim Musical Director to Associate Director; 1st and 2nd Assistant Directors Leah Rippetoe and Kayla Rodgers; Visual Coordinator Meg Adams-Kraidman; section leaders Keri Leasure and Lori Shelley (Tenor), Rachel Jones (Lead), and Marina Hayden (Bass); Secretary Julissa Trahan; and CMT representative Pam Murray. The group works collaboratively to bring the director’s artistic vision to life through section leadership, choreography, visual design, and music education.  The San Diego Chorus Director's Musical Team was honored. SPECIAL PRESENTATION: Not Her First Rodeo Kim Vaughn received the “Not Your First Rodeo” Award in recognition of her return as Interim Musical Director during a pivotal transition period for the chorus. Stepping back into the role during a season that included Regional Contest preparation and a Musical Director search, Vaughn provided steady musical leadership and continuity at a critical time. The award also carried a note of levity, acknowledging Vaughn’s extensive list of formal accolades across decades of barbershop leadership. While she has earned some of the organization’s highest honors, this marked the first time she has received this unofficial distinction.
Director’s Award As she transitions from the role of Interim to Associate Director, Vaughn presented the Director’s Award to Lead Section Leader Rachel Jones. Jones was recognized for her leadership within the lead section and her broader contributions to chorus culture and musical development, despite being a relatively recent member. Team Coordinator Award Pam Murray presented the Team Coordinator Award to Shelly McMorrow. McMorrow’s contributions include consecutive terms as show chair and regional contest coordinator, as well as ongoing operational support behind the scenes. She is also an active quartet singer and participant in the Summer Seminar Double Quartet, which has earned multiple Region 21 Golden Banana Awards.
Marie Winfrey Award The Marie Winfrey Award, which recognizes significant behind-the-scenes contributions, was presented to Connie Mitchell. Mitchell leads the chorus riser team and plays a key role in vocal assessment and auditions. Her work focuses on logistics, problem-solving, and operational support that directly impact rehearsal and performance effectiveness. Membership Milestones Longevity awards were presented to members reaching milestone anniversaries:
 2025-26 Singers of Note Recipients Singers of Note The Singers of Note designation recognizes members who demonstrate consistent, active participation across multiple areas of chorus life, including musical preparation, leadership, and organizational support. Recipients include: Kathy Whalen, Pam Murray, Julissa Trahan, Melina Lasley, Nicole Knox, Rachel Jones, Jennifer French, Leah Rippetoe, Marina Hayden, Andrea Chertkow, Laurie Bokuniewicz, Jennifer Irvine, Caressa Jackson, Shelly McMorrow, Lori Shelley, Amy Buck, Keri Leasure, Amanda Pruett, Cindy McAdams, and Erika Abate.
Musical Director Remarks Dr. Dan Wessler addressed the chorus and noted the level of preparation, focus, and engagement demonstrated by members, citing it as a strong foundation for the work ahead. He also acknowledged the passion, commitment, and investment in organizational culture already evident within the membership, describing it as a key indicator of a high-impact organization. Wessler shared that this alignment resonates with him at both a personal and professional level and contributes to his enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution. He expressed appreciation for a culture where both musical excellence and member engagement are clearly prioritized. Wessler will officially begin his role on May 6 and will immediately lead preparations for the Sweet Adelines International competition in Columbus, Ohio this October. His remarks emphasized both continuity and forward momentum as the chorus enters its next phase of musical development.  Sweet Adeline of the Year The Sweet Adeline of the Year award was presented by outgoing recipient Kayla Rodgers to Andrea Chertkow. The award is based on member nominations and input from past recipients. Chertkow was recognized for her contributions across multiple areas of the organization, including service on the Chorus Management Team, leadership in grant writing initiatives, involvement in the Song Assessment process, and participation on both the Contract Committee and Standing Rules Committee. Her impact spans multiple years and reflects a sustained operational and strategic contribution to the chorus. The evening concluded with group singing, trivia activities, and a choreographed “Shake It Off” segment led by emcee Tracy Popenhagen.
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.
Tracy Popenhagen Appointed to Sweet Adelines International Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Council1/8/2026 Sweet Adelines International recently announced the appointment of Tracy Popenhagen to its Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (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, Tracy 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 ensures that Sweet Adelines’ commitment to equity and inclusion is not symbolic, but embedded into how the organization listens, learns, and leads in meaningful ways.
ADVANCING DEI AT THE INTERNATIONAL LEVEL The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council is guided by Sweet Adelines International’s core principles of Culture of Belonging and Diversity & Inclusion. Together, these principles call the organization to celebrate difference as essential to harmony, recognize barbershop’s African American origins, learn from an exclusionary past, and reject discrimination in all its forms. Tracy’s approach aligns closely with this mission. They view DEI not as a checklist or compliance exercise, but as people-centered systems work—focused on how culture, leadership, and decision-making shape real experiences. While intent is important, Tracy emphasizes that impact ultimately defines success. Their work encourages organizations to listen closely, reflect honestly, and adjust practices when outcomes fall short of stated values—building structures that endure beyond individual leaders or moments in time.
LEADERSHIP THAT EMBRACES LEARNING AND GROWTH With a background in education, facilitation, and organizational development—along with professional experience supporting large, complex organizations including key roles at Adobe and Apple—Tracy brings a systems-oriented approach to DEI leadership. Rather than avoiding moments of tension, they encourage leaders to slow down and approach disagreement with curiosity rather than defensiveness. Discomfort, Tracy notes, is not the same as harm. Particularly in volunteer-led performing arts organizations, growth often includes unease—and that discomfort can be a sign that meaningful learning is taking place. This mindset creates space for respectful dialogue, accountability, and forward momentum without eroding trust.  Popenhagen with section leader Rachel Jones and Education Coordinator Kayla Rodgers DEI IN PRACTICE: CHAPTER-LEVEL LEADERSHIP IN SAN DIEGO Concurrently, Tracy is also leading DEI efforts at the chapter level for the San Diego Chorus, providing a real-time example of how international principles translate into everyday chorus life. This work focuses on how DEI shows up in practice - from rehearsal culture and communication norms to leadership pathways and decision-making. Locally, Tracy will work closely with Melanie Jewell, baritone with the San Diego Chorus and Charmed quartet and director of the Vista Hills Chorus, to build on and carry forward existing DEI efforts within the chorus. Together, they are helping ensure that inclusive practices are practical, relational, and sustained, woven into the fabric of chorus culture rather than treated as a separate initiative. When singers feel safe, supported, and respected, performance improves. Belonging and excellence reinforce one another. A PRACTICE, NOT A DESTINATION Success in DEI work, Tracy believes, is measured by systems that endure and structures that do not rely on a single individual to advocate or explain. It is reflected in leaders who remain open to learning, and in members who feel they truly belong and can show up fully as themselves. "DEI is not a destination. It is an ongoing practice," Popenhagen says. With Tracy Popenhagen’s appointment to the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council, and their concurrent chapter-level leadership, Sweet Adelines International continues to deepen its commitment to creating harmony that is not only sung, but lived.
 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.
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.
 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.
San Diego Chorus Awarded OSP Grant from the City of San Diego's Commission for Arts and Culture7/11/2025  JULY 2025 - The San Diego Chorus is proud to announce the award of a Fiscal Year 2026 Organizational Support Program Grant, provided by the City of San Diego’s Commission for Arts and Culture through the Office of Cultural Affairs. As a local nonprofit performing arts organization, this critical support helps keep four-part a cappella harmony vibrant, visible, and accessible to singers across the region. The San Diego Chorus has long distinguished itself as a passionate, award-winning advocate for music, education, and community engagement. Each year, the San Diego Chorus reaches more than 30,000 audience members through local, regional, national, and international performances and competitions. Grants and other financial support help offset the rising costs associated with world-class music education, performance programming, and competitive excellence. Founded in 1951, the San Diego Chorus of Sweet Adelines International is known for its award-winning performances of four-part harmony in the barbershop style. A two-time International Chorus Champion, the ensemble entertains audiences with a broad range of musical genres enhanced by its signature vibrant choreography. Under the leadership of Master Director and Sweet Adelines International Faculty member Kathleen Hansen, the Chorus remains committed to local education, entertainment, and competition. The Chorus welcomes women and non-binary treble singers who share a love of music and a commitment to personal and musical growth—regardless of age, race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender expression. Weekly rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado building in Balboa Park. Additional information is available at SanDiegoChorus.org. The San Diego Chorus is deeply grateful for the ongoing support of the City of San Diego and looks forward to continuing its mission to spread harmony throughout the city and region through community events and performances at every opportunity.
San Diego Chorus Accepts Wild Card Invitation as Competitor #6 in 2026 SAI Chorus SemiFinals7/11/2025  June 2025 – Based on the outcome of a random draw, the San Diego Chorus will take the stage as Competitor #6 in the SAI 2026 Chorus Semifinals in Columbus, Ohio. The organization recently accepted a Wild Card invitation to compete in the 2026 Sweet Adelines International Competition, following a strong performance at the 2025 Region 21 Golden West Contest and Convention, which was held in April 2025 in Redondo Beach, California. Established in 1952, the San Diego Chorus earned second place in the region with a score of 659, placing them fifth internationally based on global results released by Sweet Adelines International. This outstanding achievement secured the chorus one of a limited number of Wild Card invitations to the international stage in Columbus, Ohio, in October 2026. The San Diego Chorus is no stranger to international success, having placed 7th in the world at the 2024 competition in Kansas City, and having twice earned the title of International Champion in 1975 and 2001. Preparing for international competition is an extensive undertaking, with choruses typically investing 12 to 24 months of preparation. This includes personal practice, weekly rehearsals, sectionals, and intensive vocal and visual coaching. As a member-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the San Diego Chorus relies on thousands of volunteer hours from its members, along with financial support from fundraising, performances, and grants. The chorus is a proud multi-year recipient of the Creative Communities San Diego Funding Award, granted through the City of San Diego’s Cultural Affairs Division. In 2026, 32 choruses from around the world will compete at the international level. Performances are adjudicated by four judges, each specializing in one of the following categories: Sound, Music, Expression, and Visual Communication. Each category allows for a maximum of 100 points per song, with a total possible score of 800 points per performance. In addition to chorus competitions, the event includes quartet contests, culminating in the International Women’s Quartet Finals, which crowns each year’s Queens of Harmony. Founded in 1945, Sweet Adelines International is dedicated to preserving and advancing the American art form of four-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. With over 25,000 members, 1,200 registered quartets, and 600 choruses worldwide, it is one of the largest singing organizations in the world, focused on musical excellence and education. The San Diego Chorus welcomes treble singers year-round through a self-paced “soft” audition process. Interested singers are invited to begin their audition journey at any time. Rehearsals are held weekly on Wednesday evenings from 6:45 PM to 9:45 PM in Room 207 of the Casa del Prado, located in beautiful Balboa Park.
July 2025 — The San Diego Chorus is delighted to welcome back acclaimed performance coach Cy Wood. A respected figure in the barbershop world, Cy serves as a judge in the Performance Category for the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS). Cy is the past Executive Director of the Young Professionals Choral Collective (YPCC) and a versatile creative artist and coach. Cy’s journey has taken him across the country—from performing and producing in New York City for nearly a decade, to teaching music and theatre for seven years at Butler Tech School of the Arts in Ohio. His professional portfolio includes Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, special events, national tours, and more. Most recently, Cy and his husband relocated to Palm Springs, California, beginning a new chapter in his artistic career. A third-generation barbershopper, Cy began his barbershop journey at age 15 with the Idaho Gateway Chorus. While in college, he sang baritone with High Flight, a collegiate quartet that won the Rocky Mountain District contest and placed 12th at the 2006 International Competition. In 2012, Cy joined Voices of Gotham (VoG) in New York City, where he quickly rose to leadership as baritone section leader, board member at large, and eventually the chorus’s Choreographer and Presentation Leader. His creative work has been showcased on the international stage and in venues such as Carnegie Hall. After moving to Ohio, Cy sang with Southern Gateway Chorus, a BHS Top Ten chorus, where he also contributed as a music team member and Performance Director. Cy’s quartet experience includes singing baritone with baritone with MixTape, the 2024 Johnny Appleseed District champion quartet based in Ohio. Previously, he sang with On Tap, which won the Mid-Atlantic District Northern Division contest in 2014 and placed 7th at the MAD District contest. The quartet entertained audiences until disbanding in 2015. 
As part of its ongoing commitment to artistic excellence, the San Diego Chorus regularly hosts member-exclusive coaching sessions, especially in the lead-up to competition season. Currently ranked 2nd in Region 21 Golden West, the Chorus has accepted a Wild Card invitation from Sweet Adelines International to compete in the International Chorus Semi-Finals in Columbus, Ohio in October. of 2026. The San Diego Chorus will be one of 32 choruses performing on the international stage, presenting a barbershop ballad and uptune. Each performance is scored by four judges across the categories of Sound, Music, Expression, and Visual Communication, with a maximum of 800 points available. Choruses that place in the top 10 will advance to the Finals, where they will perform a 15-minute entertainment package blending traditional barbershop with contemporary a cappella. Cy is one of several world-class coaches working with the San Diego Chorus this year as the group sharpens its contest and entertainment packages. Master Director Kathleen Hansen emphasizes the value of working with multifaceted coaches during this critical phase of preparation: “There are endless facets of musicality and performance that we fine-tune concurrently in preparation for competition,” says Hansen. “Multi-dimensional coaches like Cy bring valuable insight and guidance to our singers as we continue to raise the bar on musical excellence in preparation for performance and competition."
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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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