As of July, Washtenaw’s very own Out Loud Chorus has appointed a new Artistic Director, Dusty Francis.
Founded in 1995, Out Loud Chorus is the largest mixed chorus in North America, priding itself on its diverse and welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community—their only requirement is that members can match pitch.
There are also non-singing roles for those who don’t want to or are unable to sing (i.e., fundraising, advertising, staging, and many others). Their mission is to provide musical experiences and education for their members, as well as to create a supportive community for LGBTQ+ individuals. They embody diversity and resistance against bigotry, one song at a time.
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Dusty Francis’ position as artistic director was announced earlier this summer in July. Francis currently serves as the Director of Musical Ministries at the First Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ann Arbor and has experience leading and singing at organizations in New York.
He was picked for this position because of his dynamic and collaborative energy, as well as his thoughtful, inclusive programming and leadership–all of which align perfectly with Out Loud Chorus’ mission.
The upcoming musical season will feature a winter concert in January 2026 and a Pride season concert in June 2026. Out Loud Chorus invites the community to join Francis and their performers to celebrate this new chapter in their history. You can buy tickets at olconline.org.
