The story of the Appalachian Equality Chorus (AppEC) is a powerful testament to the intersection of music, activism, and community in East Tennessee. From its bold beginnings as the Knoxville Gay Men’s Chorus (KGMC) in 2012 to its evolution into a more inclusive and far-reaching organization today, the chorus has not only uplifted the LGBTQ+ community but also fostered solidarity across a diverse array of identities and regions.

Here’s a brief overview of the milestones that mark the evolution of this beloved chorus:

1. The Birth of the Chorus (2012)

In the spring of 2012, Bleu Copas and Christopher Hamblinwere inspired to form the Knoxville Gay Men’s Chorus as a response to the proposed “Don’t Say Gay” bill in Tennessee. With the goal of giving the LGBTQ+ community a bold and visible voice, the Chorus held its first performances at rallies and Pride events, making an immediate impact in Knoxville and beyond. Their name, chosen deliberately, was an act of defiance—a declaration that LGBTQ+ voices were to be heard.

2. Growth and Community Partnerships (2012–2015)

From its early performances, KGMC sought out collaborations with local LGBTQ+ organizations and faith communities. The chorus grew quickly, gaining momentum and recognition. The organization also developed important partnerships with KnoxPride, Tennessee Equality Project, and others, all of which helped KGMC grow into a vital part of the local LGBTQ+ landscape. By 2013, the chorus had joined GALA Choruses, connecting with a network of LGBTQ+ choruses across the country.

3. Expanding Reach (2015–2017)

In 2015, Dr. Alan Stevens took over as Artistic Director, bringing a new vision and expanding the chorus’s reach both within East Tennessee and beyond. In 2016, the chorus performed at the GALA Festival in Denver, joining over 6,000 singers from around the world. This marked a significant turning point in the chorus’s national visibility and connection to the wider LGBTQ+ arts movement.

4. A Time of Transition (2020–2022)

The COVID-19 pandemic presented both a challenge and an opportunity for the chorus. With in-person performances and rehearsals on hold, KGMC adapted by hosting virtual events, producing videos, and using digital platforms to continue its advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. The pandemic also underscored the importance of supporting marginalized communities, particularly in the face of rising political and social pressures.

By 2022, it was clear that the chorus needed to evolve beyond its original framework to better reflect its growing and increasingly diverse membership. With singers from across the gender and sexuality spectrum, KGMC rebranded itself as the Appalachian Equality Chorus (AppEC), marking a commitment to inclusivity and broadening its mission to embrace all members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as allies.

5. A New Identity: Appalachian Equality Chorus (2022–Present)

In response to its expanded membership, AppEC is now a broader, more inclusive organization. The chorus has embraced a new name that reflects the diverse identities of its singers, including people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions. AppEC also began holding rehearsals in both Knoxville and Johnson City, reaching members from all across the Appalachian region.

The chorus now serves as a beacon of equality, promoting inclusion, empathy, and social justice through music. This is encapsulated in its revised mission:

“We use our voices, strengths, and individual gifts to create enriching musical experiences; promote inclusion, equality, and empathy; end hostility toward minority populations; and better our world through community partnerships.”

6. Looking to the Future (2024 and Beyond)

As AppEC enters 2024, the chorus continues to grow and evolve. With nearly 100 voices in rehearsals and a new focus on including all vocal parts (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass), the chorus has solidified its place in the East Tennessee arts scene. The GALA Festival—postponed due to the pandemic—finally took place, and AppEC joined thousands of singers in Minneapolis, showcasing the power of unity and music in the fight for equality.

The hiring of co-founder Bleu Copas as the chorus’s first Executive Director marks another significant milestone. With Bleu’s leadership, AppEC hopes to strengthen its community outreach, engage in even more activism, and ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, sexuality, or background, finds a place in their mission.

Why the Name Change?

The decision to rebrand from the Knoxville Gay Men’s Chorusto the Appalachian Equality Chorus was not just about geography but also about inclusivity. As the chorus’s membership became more diverse, with more women, transgender, and bisexual members joining, it was clear that the organization needed a name that represented this broader community. The new name reflects the chorus’s commitment to representing all marginalized voices in the Appalachian region and beyond.

A Community-Driven Future

The future of AppEC looks bright, as the chorus continues to stand as a pillar of support, advocacy, and artistic expression for the LGBTQ+ community in the heart of Appalachia. Through its music, performances, and partnerships, AppEC is building bridges between communities, providing a space where everyone can sing, share, and be seen.

As AppEC looks to 2024 and beyond, its focus will remain on creating a safe, welcoming space for people of all backgrounds and continuing to use the power of music to foster empathy, equality, and love. Whether you’re a performer, patron, or ally, the Appalachian Equality Chorus invites you to be part of their mission to create a more inclusive, compassionate world—one note at a time.

Dr. Alan Stevens, Director of Choral Activities and Coordinator of Vocal Music Education at East Tennessee State University’s School of Music, was hired as artistic director in the summer of 2015. Under his tenacious leadership the organization has consistently experienced rapid and explosive growth every season. In July of 2016, KGMC traveled to Denver, Colorado, to perform for the GALA Choruses National Festival. This event, held every four years, brings together LGBTQIA+ Choruses from across the world to perform and network. KGMC’s performance at this international event was wildly celebrated by those in attendance. This was a pivotal moment for the chorus as it solidified its place among similar organizations dedicated to excellence in artistry and a mission to advocate for the queer community on an international level.

Knoxville Gay Men’s Chorus is now the Appalachian Equality Chorus.

Why Change?
Since our founding, KGMC has grown with members traveling from as far away as North Georgia, Southern Virginia, and Chattanooga. We now hold weekly rehearsals both in Knoxville and the Tri-Cities to provide a home for more of our Appalachian community.

Beyond geographic diversity, KGMC’s membership includes a wide diversity of singers. Bisexual, transgender, and ally members have become a significant part of our representation on stage–adding their voices to ours.

Finally, KGMC’s board, our staff, and our artists have for years included women. Their voices add daily to our song enabling KGMC to reach more people, represent more perspectives, and accomplish more good.

The Knoxville Gay Men’s Chorus has now, for more than a decade announced to the world both in name, song, and action that the gay community not only lives in Appalachia but that we thrive here. We’ve created a safe space for our members and our patrons, speaking up with a message of love and acceptance.

KGMC endeavors to broaden our umbrella to embrace more of our community and to create that same safe space for everyone regardless of sexuality or gender. With women’s rights, trans-rights, and gay rights all under attack, KGMC is seeking to live our own mission by broadening ourselves to be more inclusive. As we rebrand as the Appalachian Equality Chorus, KGMC embraces all of our members and patrons across Appalachia. We outwardly recognize the invaluable contributions made by those of all sexualities and genders to our mission and vision.

As the Appalachian Equality Chorus, we will continue the same mission and better represent all of our community. We hope you will join us. Become a singer, dancer, performer, board member, volunteer, donor, sponsor, or patron–all are welcome in our family.