Hadley, MA — The Queer Joy Collaborative is opening its doors—and its music—to anyone curious about joining our community choruses. On Monday, August 25, we’ll host free Open Rehearsals at Hartsbrook School (193 Bay Rd, Hadley):
Rhythm & Radiance Kids Chorus: 4:30–6:00 PM
Open to any kid between the ages of 6-18; must be LGBTQIA+ or an Ally
Queer Joy Chorus (Adults): 7:00–9:00 PM
Open to any adult 18+; must be LGBTQIA+ or an Ally
Open Rehearsals are for people who are considering joining but want to try a rehearsal out before registering. It’s a chance to see how we work, learn a little music, connect with others, and experience the joy of singing in community—no auditions, no pressure, just music and fun.
Whether you’re a seasoned singer or brand new to making music, you’ll find a welcoming space to explore your voice, start the season’s repertoire, and be part of something joyful from day one.
Event Details:
Date: Monday, Aug 25, 2025
Time: 4:30-6pm Rhythm & Radiance Kids Chorus; 7-9pm Queer Joy Chorus
Location: Hartsbrook School, High School Building, 193 Bay Road, Hadley
Cost: $0
For more information or press photos please contact Mara Levi at mara@queerjoycollaborative.org.
About The Queer Joy Collaborative:
The Queer Joy Collaborative is dedicated to promoting individual and collective queer joy primarily through the transformational and healing power of art, music, and mutual aid. Queer joy encompasses the spiritual, mental, and physical wellbeing of individuals and the community. The Collaborative celebrates diversity and elevates queer voices, nurturing collective strength and solidarity.
About The Queer Joy Chorus:
The Queer Joy Chorus is a 100+ member group of people with identities that span the LGBTQIA+ community. There’s no audition requirement to get in - the only requirement is that you be a member or ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and that you find joy in singing.
We center music by Queer artists, we sing music with messages of hope and belonging, and we spend a lot of time laughing on stage and off. Our chief mission is to build community within the choir, and to connect with the community outside of our choir.
The chorus is conducted by Mara Levi, a teacher, performer, designer, and arranger who leads the group with a largely democratic style that centers consensus and community.
About the Rhythm & Radiance Kids’ Chorus:
The Rhythm & Radiance Kids’ Chorus just had its world premier performance in May of 2025. This 25+-member chorus is open to kids from ages 6-18 who meet weekly to find joy in making music and being creative. Kids are empowered to be themselves, speak their minds, and to make space for the other people in the room with them. Their performances include songs the kids choose to perform as well as any other forms of performance that the group chooses to assemble (last year we had kid-choreographed dance, puppets, skits, and animals eating pizza!).
Our Executive Director and Musical Director:
Mara Levi has spent over 20 years building vibrant communities as a teacher, performer, and advocate for justice through democratic engagement. A skilled composer and arranger, Mara has been at the helm of the Queer Joy Chorus since its inception as the Pride Chorus in 2019, guiding its growth to a flourishing ensemble of over 70 members with diverse musical talents.
As the inaugural Executive Director of the Queer Joy Collaborative, Mara brings a rich blend of experience in program development and community building. With degrees in Music and Music Education—emphasizing Social Justice in the classroom—alongside a certificate in User Experience Design, Mara is uniquely equipped to lead the Collaborative's expansion. Their vision and expertise will help transform the organization from a chorus into a broad-reaching platform that champions Queer Joy through mutual aid, art, and deep community connections.
Media Contact:
Mara Levi
Executive Director
413-264-6457
mara@queerjoycollaborative.org
www.queerjoycollaborative.org
