Imagine 5,500 GLBT singers from 140 choruses and ensembles on three continents gathered in one place for eight solid days of performances. It happened in San Jose, California, in July 2000 and Calliope Women's Chorus was in the thick of it. There was a sense of comradeship among the thousands of people at the festival, remembers Sarah Henderson, a 25-year member of Calliope. It was very special that the music that is so often at the edge of our lives - we have to have day jobs, after all - was central for that one week. There was a sense of joy in the festival village about that

The festival was organized by GALA, the Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses. GALA, a nonprofit organization, fosters the artistic and organizational development of its 180 member choruses. GALA holds a major festival every four years and regional and specialty festivals in between. The range and diversity of the music and the quality of the performances was incredible, says Calliope member Zoe Nicholie. Indeed, the most dedicated festival- goer could have listened to more than 40 hours of performances during the week, from groups as diverse as Melo's Men le Choeur International Gai de Paris, Lavender Light: the Black and People of All Colors Lesbian and Gay Gospel Choir from New York City, and Vox Femina Los Angeles. Performing from the Twin Cities were Calliope - and Calliope's small ensemble, Harmonia -One Voice Mixed Chorus, and the Twin Cities Gay Men's Chorus.

Though music was the primary focus, making new friends and deepening old ones was an important part of the festival, as well. Deb Rasmussen, one of Calliope's newest members, says that getting to know each person from Calliope better was an absolute gift. Poolside parties, trips to the beach, sightseeing and many meals in San Jose restaurants provided plenty of time for socializing. And for those who got a little overwhelmed by all the activity, a special women’s space was set aside at the Convention Center where women could help sew a commemorative quilt, quietly work on a jigsaw puzzle, or take a nap. For Calliope member Kathy Hagen, the women's space was a favorite spot.

The GALA festival was Jane Ramseyer Miller's last concert directing Calliope, and many teary eyes faced the beloved director during Calliope's performance. Calliope's set was very well received, especially the rousing Ann Reed song, The Fair, which featured a butterhead, mini donuts and other hilarious props.