Sing a Rainbow - The choir harmonising the LGBTQ+ community

“Putting yourself out there and showing up to a new group is difficult,” Matthijs, Sing Out’s newest member, muses. The choir, in operation since 2017, could not be more all-embracing, however. Founded by Kite Trust members, the group aims to weave disparate strands of Cambridgeshire’s queer community together. 

“Janie and I knew each other through [LGBTQ group] Sisteract,” says long-time member Alison. “But we didn’t mix with gay men or trans groups.” Sing Out, whose repertoire spans Disney to niche records, joins the LGBTQ+ dots. With drop-in rehearsals in Downing Church, each week sees different combinations of the choir’s 150 or so members in attendance.

Janie is a core choir member. “When I was coming out in the 80s, Clause 28 was still enforced,” she says. “What I love is mixing with younger members – they are so confident and proud, so sure of their sexuality and gender identity. I find that really uplifting.”

Most significantly, Sing Out is a safe space for its members, from those transitioning (and experiencing voice changes) to those unsure of their sexuality. From flash mobs to winter fairs, the choir offers opportunities to resound across the region. 

With singing increasing Covid-19 transmission, the pandemic posed a challenge. Rehearsals were relocated to Jesus Green. “We got applauded by the local drunks who used to hang around the toilets,” Janie recalls.

Back in full swing, one of Sing Out’s youngest choristers says: “It’s the only organisation in Cambridge that I’ve ever been a part of that successfully brings together students, non-students and people from broad areas of Cambridgeshire. We’re all united in this thing. When we get it right with the harmonies, it makes you very emotional.”