It’s Pride Month, and one popular singing group is getting ready for opening night in Sacramento. But before they hit the stage, they’re fine-tuning their vocals and dusting off their boots and hats.<\/p>\n
The Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus is preparing for its annual concert. This year’s show is called “Rhinestone Cowboy.”<\/p>\n
For long-time chorus member, Mike Tentis, this isn’t his first rodeo.<\/p>\n
“I have been singing with the Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus for 38 years. I moved here in 1987,” Tentis said.<\/p>\n
Tentis said that for those who think they may not like country music, think again.<\/p>\n
“I can guarantee you, you will find a song or two in this show that everyone will like,” Tentis said. “It’s just really good music.”<\/p>\n
David Labarre joined the chorus back in 2021. He also serves as the group’s board president.\u00a0<\/p>\n
“The group has been around for 41 years,” Labarre said. “We’re entering our 42nd season in the fall.”<\/p>\n
Through the years, the singing group has evolved to allow anyone to audition.<\/p>\n
“You don’t have to be gay, nor be a man to be singing with the SGMC,” Labarre said. “As long as you can sing within the tenor and bass range, we accept all singers.”<\/p>\n
He believes their popularity and longevity come from two important groups.<\/p>\n
“Community and family are what really have made us so successful and continue to allow us to go for so long,” Labarre said. “This has been a group that’s allowed to bring together folks from all over the lgtbq+ community.”<\/p>\n
Vincente Melgari is a new chorus member. His love for music started at an early age while growing up in Mexico.<\/p>\n
“Stepping on stage, it feels like going home,” he said. “It feels like you’re flying.”<\/p>\n
Melgari said expressing happiness through music can serve as a powerful force.<\/p>\n
“I think joy is a form of resistance, and sometimes we don’t have to make a statement to make a statement,” he said. “Just standing on stage as who we are and take up space.”<\/p>\n
Their live performance kicks off at the Sofia Theater in midtown Sacramento this Friday night and runs through Sunday. Tickets are still available.<\/p>\n
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