The beauty of choral arts is that everyone is welcome. No matter your age, background, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or physical ability—the emotions your music stirs don’t discriminate. The power of a well-placed harmony or a breathtaking crescendo can live in the body long after the final note fades.
As someone once said, music is the language of the soul. And while our differences make us unique, the impact of music reminds us how deeply connected we really are. So in the spirit of inclusion, I want to offer a few practical ways to help your concerts reflect that same spirit—welcoming every person who walks through your doors and creating an experience that says, “You belong here.”
Whether you’re an artistic director, a volunteer, or a one-person marketing team doing it all, these ideas are designed to be actionable, thoughtful, and flexible for any choir—big or small.
If your venue has wheelchair seating, great! But don’t stop there. Make sure that:
Hiring a live American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter for your concerts—especially for choral works heavy in narration or text—can be transformative. Not only does it give Deaf or hard-of-hearing patrons a way to fully experience your performance, but it also signals that your chorus values communication in all its forms.
If hiring an interpreter for every concert isn’t possible, consider doing it for one or two featured performances each season, and promote it clearly in advance. Don’t forget to include the ASL logo on all marketing materials for that particular concert!
OK, hear me out. I understand that pay-what-you-can (PWYC) pricing isn’t for every chorus (Tonality bravely introduced this in 2023). That said, if you’re trying to increase accessibility, diversify your audience, and create a more inclusive experience, PWYC models can remove a major barrier for folks who want to experience your music but who might not have room in their budget to attend at the regular ticket price.
Of course, PWYC pricing isn’t something you should dive into without careful consideration. So, be sure to run this idea by your board or box office committee to consider the pros and cons and decide if it’s the right choice for your chorus.
One thing to consider is that, while it may not be a fit for every concert, you could always test it with one concert or offer a PWYC option alongside regular tickets! I just wanted to put the idea in your head. So, if it doesn’t work for you, no problem.
Pro tip: Clear messaging is key. The purpose of PWYC is to make people feel empowered and welcome—not pitied.
Another way to increase awareness of your chorus and potentially grow your audience is by hosting open rehearsals.
I used to work for a chorus that held open rehearsals a couple of times a year during the downtown monthly ‘First Friday’ art walk. Conveniently, that chorus’s home base (and main rehearsal space) was centrally located on the main art walk path. There’s definitely something alluring about a beautiful cathedral whose open doors give way to beautiful harmonies floating from inside!
Hosting open rehearsals (with no cost or a suggested donation) is a low-lift, high-impact way to engage:
You could use this opportunity to promote your upcoming concerts to your email list, get donations, or even to recruit new volunteers. Just be sure to set expectations by clarifying that it's a working rehearsal, not a polished performance. Then let the music do the rest.
Let’s talk about chairs—yes, chairs. Because for audience members in larger bodies, seating can make or break the concert experience (literally and emotionally). If your venue is a church with sturdy pews, you’re probably in good shape. But if you’re bringing in extra seating—especially those typical white folding chairs—please pause and consider: are these chairs safe and comfortable for everyone?
As someone who exists in a larger body myself, I can tell you—nothing triggers more anxiety than walking into a space full of fold-up chairs. They’re uncomfortable for most people, but for folks in larger bodies, they’re often not even an option.
The good news? There are weight- and size-inclusive chair options. If you absolutely must go with folding chairs, please go with something armless, extra wide and cushioned.
My recommendation? If at all possible, try to have a couple of these chairs on hand (or these), and make sure they’re easy to access without asking. This will make a world of difference in helping all patrons feel welcome, safe and seen!
Inclusivity isn’t just about ramps and restrooms. It’s also about who sees themselves reflected in your choices.
You don’t need a big budget or a staff of ten to create a more welcoming experience for your audience. Every choice—clear signage, diverse programming, accessible seating—adds up to a message that says: You belong here.
So, I invite you to pick one strategy to try this season. Start small. Ask for feedback if you like. And adjust as you go. You’ve got this—and your community is better because you're thinking beyond the stage.
What’s something your chorus has done to increase accessibility and inclusivity? What’s missing from the list? Share your ideas and thoughts in the comments below, so we can all learn and grow together!