by June Kamerling

Jose joined the, then newly formed, Oakland Gay Men's Chorus in November of 1999 after seeing an advertisement in the Bay Area Reporter.

“I joined the chorus because I love to sing. Over the 20+ years I’ve been in chorus I’ve met many wonderful people. I’ve always been a first tenor, even though my speaking voice is fairly low. I was in a community production of Jesus Christ Superstar, playing Judas, which is a pretty high part.

We started pretty small….I don’t exactly remember but maybe we had 20 people in the beginning. At one point we were down to about 12..it was more of an ensemble than a chorus but over the years we eventually grew to the size the chorus is today.

I was on the board a few years back. That’s an experience I don’t want to repeat (laughs). There have been many ups and downs which I won’t go into here, but all in all the chorus has been strong and a great experience.

I see the chorus growing in size and becoming more known and visible. I can tell Ben is going to lead us to a good direction and that’s exciting.

I’d love to see the chorus sing more with Oakland Symphony and possibly other groups once the dust settles on SIP. That was really fun”.

Jose is moving this summer to Chicago to take care of his 87 “year young” Dad. 

As a long time teacher he will miss his students and is sad that he won’t get to see his seniors graduate from high school.

“There is a Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus as well as others in the area, but I think I’ll rest my voice for a while as I get settled. Some of our former OGMC members have moved to Chicago and are in the CGMC”.

Jose, we wish you the very best. It’s been a pleasure singing with you in T-1’s. You will be missed by all.