About SDWC
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.
We welcome all women, gender non-conforming, and transgender individuals to sing with us 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.
Our History
The San Diego Women’s Chorus was established in 1987 by Cynthia Lawrence-Wallace, a well-known community activist. That first group was made up of 14 members who rehearsed in Cynthia’s living room. We are proud that there are founding members still active singing members today!
Over the years women who love music and love giving to our community have volunteered to produce quality choral concerts that focus on the music of women and lesbian and gay composers and arrangers.
For a list of the concerts and other numerous community events that we have produced and performed, please click below.
Testimonials
“From the first refrain of the opening chant, I felt I was in a magic space where the power of love and music and community could change the world.”
“Absolutely dynamic”
“These beautiful women sound sooo amazing! If you’ve never heard them, you must plan to attend a concert in the future!”
“The most amazing concert I have heard -there is nothing lovelier than hearing women’s voices in incredible harmony with each other.”
“You had me at note 1! Beautiful, rich, moving sounds filled my heart until it burst…”
“I’m thrilled to have a creative outlet where I’m encouraged to contribute my ideas. It really makes me feel like I’m a part of something special.”
~ Jenn, SDWC Member
“Tonight I was bathed in the music and message of Winter Warmth. Thank you for a wonderful evening!”
~ Suzi
“Congratulations, Ladies…on another wonderful concert! I’m enjoying watching you grow in your sisterhood, as well as in your musicality and performances! All the best in all your future endeavors! I, for one, am behind you all the way!”
~ Lew
“No matter the music or the venue, SDWC always puts a smile on my face and a song in my heart – you make me proud to be a woman while honoring all the woman that I am.”
~ Suzi (after pride performance)
“Very festive and excellent song choices.”
~ Judy (via Goldstar)
“Wonderful, like minded people together, sharing from the heart. Loved it, thank you for the great evening!“
~ Kelly
“Delightful concert, lots of talent, well directed!”
~ Anonymous (via Goldstar)
“You all were so wonderful last week! I’ve enjoyed seeing your growth as a chorus and in your quality of singing! A very beautiful sound! Thank you for your gift of singing and your message. Keep up the great work! Love you all!”
~ Lew
“I am honored to be the Vice President of SDWC!! You bring something special to the stage every time you perform. A message yes but one that is given with love through your music! I am very proud to be connected with you!! With Love and Admiration”
~ Jeff