Every Monday evening, the Chez Ernest restaurant in the 19th arrondissement of Paris becomes a vocal studio for the Queerale, the first queer and trans choir in Paris. The choir director, Ju, marks the tempo from the stage, drawing vertical lines in the air as the chorus of deep voices rises. Choristers seated in front of her clear their throats, waiting for their turn. A young girl who arrived late takes her seat, greeted by the smiles of two "colleagues" who hand her the sheet music and quietly ask if she has revised her part.
The choir director turns to the opposite side of the room, instructing the sopranos, "It's your turn," in a calm but firm tone, eyes half-closed, as the warm and reassuring voices are eclipsed by a higher-pitched ensemble. Some voices seem unsure, possibly due to the heat, a distraction, or because their timbre is undergoing change due to hormones taken as part of their transition.
The Queerale aims to deconstruct traditional vocal performances, challenging stereotypes and clichés often associated with singing. The choir provides a space for queer and trans individuals to express themselves through music, fostering community and self-discovery. Members often describe the experience as both empowering and transformative, allowing them to explore their voices in a supportive environment.
Through their performances, the Queerale seeks to highlight the diversity of queer and trans experiences, using music as a tool for visibility and inclusion. The choir's efforts reflect a broader movement within the arts to embrace authenticity and representation, offering a platform for voices that have historically been marginalized.
Parisian Queer Choir Transforms Restaurant Into Vocal Studio
AI-rewritten from original reportingHow it works
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