Classical Pride Charleston Showcases Queer Composers at Piccolo Spoleto

Classical Pride Charleston Showcases Queer Composers at Piccolo Spoleto

The first instance of its kind in South Carolina, Classical Pride Charleston is set to make its vibrant debut at the Piccolo Spoleto Festival. Organized predominantly by Ryan Pagels, music director of the Unitarian Church, this transformative event was inspired by Europe’s pioneering Classical Pride Concert, bringing the work of celebrated classical and contemporary LGBTQ+ composers to the forefront of Charleston’s cultural milieu.

Pioneering LGBTQ+ Representation in Classical Music

In more than merely introducing Queer composers, Classical Pride Charleston’s chief aim is to normalize queer existence throughout the classical canon. “The timing couldn’t be better – Pride overlaps perfectly with the festival, acting as a beacon for this to occur. It simply made too much sense not to happen”, stated Ryan Pagels.

Performer Line-Up and Repertoire Highlights

Classical Pride Charleston features an array of impressive performers, including the Singers of Summerville, the Palmetto Peace Choir, a solo performance by Pagels, and a string orchestra conducted by Robbi Kenney. The program promises a powerful tribute to the LGBTQ+ community, including works by renowned queer composers such as Francis Poulenc, Leonard Bernstein, Samuel Barber, and Sam Pottle.

The consensus amongst the performers is excitement and anticipation. Pagels has expressed immense pride in the selection they have made, emphasizing the quality and representation their choices show.

The Event’s Influence and Outreach

While the event easily could have been a standalone endeavor, Pagels mentioned that incorporating it into the Piccolo Spoleto Festival is essential for outreach. In an era when anti-LGBTQ+ legislature is on the rise, having as many individuals as possible in attendance to uplift and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community is crucial.

Pagels and the church expressed their hopes that the event would be more revealing than contrarian, showing that they have, indeed, always been there. Reflecting similar sentiments, Rebecca Hinds, head of Charleston’s Unitarian Universalist Church, stated, “LGBTQ+ folks are part of every aspect of life in Charleston. Showcasing infamous LGBTQ+ composers and reminding ourselves of this is an honor. We openly welcome anyone wanting to join us.”

Details About Classical Pride Charleston Event

The Classical Pride Charleston event is scheduled to occur at the Unitarian Church on Saturday, June 1, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, which can be bought on the church’s website, are priced at $25.