Interview with Bruce Southard, D.M.A

By June Kamerling OaklandGMC Member

It is our great honor to introduce Dr. Bruce Southard, D.M.A., as Oakland Gay Men’s Chorus’s new Artistic Director. Known to friends and colleagues simply as Bruce, he brings a wealth of experience, passion, and a fresh perspective to OaklandGMC.

We sat down with Bruce for an engaging conversation about his background, vision, and plans for the chorus. Read on to learn more about the inspiring leader guiding OaklandGMC into its 26th season and beyond.

June Kamerling (JK): Welcome to OaklandGMC, Bruce! Can you tell us a bit about yourself? Where are you from, and can you share some of your personal and professional experiences that led to this role?

Bruce Southard (BS): I’m a California native. I grew up in Sonoma County and later moved to the valley, where I attended high school and college. After earning my master’s degree in Kentucky, I spent 25 years in the northern U.S. Eventually, I returned to the Bay Area to care for my mom and ended up directing the Stockton Chorale. Coming out later in life, I sought community—and this role with OaklandGMC combines my passion for community building with the joy of leading a chorus.

JK: What drew you to OaklandGMC? What resonates most with the chorus’s mission, and what excites you about stepping into this role?

BS: OaklandGMC embodies everything I love about choral work—connecting people through music, fostering camaraderie, and reaching audiences who might not otherwise experience this art form. I’m especially excited by the chorus’s inclusivity and its mix of musical genres. Conducting a TTBB (tenor 1, tenor 2, baritone, bass) chorus again feels like coming home.

JK: As Artistic Director, what is your vision for OaklandGMC? How do you plan to build on its legacy while adding your own touch?

BS: My vision centers on helping everyone find their voice, refining vocal technique, and crafting meaningful performances. OaklandGMC has a strong foundation, and I want to honor that by listening and learning before making significant changes. Collaboration with other arts organizations is also key. I see this as an opportunity to expand our reach while celebrating Oakland’s diversity.

JK: Can you share a memorable moment that shaped you as an Artistic Director? How do you balance being a leader, artist, and advocate?

BS: One of my most moving experiences was performing Messiah during my master’s program. The emotional power of that final "Amen" left every performer in tears—proof of what we can achieve together. Balancing leadership, artistry, and advocacy is about collaboration and authenticity. I strive to create a space where all voices are heard while ensuring the chorus remains focused and connected.

JK: What are you most looking forward to as OaklandGMC embarks on this new chapter?

BS: I’m excited to build community through music. This role feels like a two-way street—where I give my best but also gain so much in return. It’s a joy to create not just great music but a shared experience where everyone feels uplifted and valued.



Bruce’s passion for music and community shines brightly, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to OaklandGMC. Stay tuned for an exciting 26th season as we begin this new chapter together!