Are you interested in joining the Queer Big Apple Corps? Start here by reading answers to all the questions you may have about joining. When you’re ready, click the button at the bottom to sign up. We’ll get back to you soon with more information.
No! We do not hold auditions for any ensemble; however we do encourage that you be able to read music or are currently learning.
Absolutely not! We are open to all, regardless of orientation or gender.
Nope! We have a number of non-musicians in our ranks, including members of the Color Guard, Dance Crew, banner carriers, Band Aides, photographers, Front-of-House staff, and concert production personnel, just to name a few.
Not at all. We do have some professionals in our ranks, but most of us are amateurs.
Of course! Many of our members hadn’t played for years when they joined us. You’ll be surprised how quickly it comes back once you start rehearsing regularly!
We do own a few instruments (sousaphones, percussion, larger brass, etc.), both symphonic and marching, that we can loan to members who need them. If we don’t have an instrument available, we can help you find a low-cost rental.
We divide our year into three seasons. The symphonic band has two seasons (fall and spring), and the marching band has one primary season (summer). You are welcome to join us for one, two, or all three of these seasons.
The symphonic band typically rehearses once a week in the evening for three hours during, culminating in a concert at the end of each season. We may also add outreach performances throughout the year, but these are voluntary.
The marching band typically rehearses once a week in the evening during pride season, with occasional rehearsals during the post-pride season. In a typical year, we perform in 12-15 events and parades. Most of these are in the NYC area, but we also travel to other cities. You are welcome to perform in as many events as you are able.
There is a participation fee per season. The symphonic band has two seasons (fall and spring), and the marching band has one primary season (summer).
This money helps offset a number of our operational expenses, including concert hall rental, music purchase, equipment truck rental, etc. For our out-of-town marching trips, members usually pay for their transportation and lodging. However, it is our standing policy to accept everyone, regardless of financial need, and we have scholarship and sponsorship opportunities for those who need them.
In order to keep our participation fees affordable, we rely on fundraising to cover the remainder of our expenses. Members are asked to help raise money throughout the year. Don’t let this scare you. We make it fun and easy.
During the Marching Band on-season (March-July), we rehearse every Thursday from 6:30pm until sunset at Foley Square, located at Worth and Lafayette Streets in Lower Manhattan. During the off-season (August-February), we rehearse once a month. Indoor locations will be used as necessary.
The Symphonic Band rehearses Mondays from 7:00—10:00 pm at Julia Richman Educational Complex, located at 317 E 67th Street between First and Second Avenues. The winter concert season typically runs from September to December, and the spring concert season from January to April.
We’ll set you up in Chorus Connection, which we use as our band management system. You’ll have access to the calendar, and receive important updates from our Artistic Directors, your section leader, and the Leadership Team.