OUR MISSION
Our mission is to amplify LGBTQIA+ artistry in classical music.Through performances, commissioned works, and community partnerships, we foster an inclusive cultural landscape where LGBTQIA+ voices are celebrated. To further our impact, we donate 25% of our concert proceeds to organizations that share our commitment to equity, inclusion, and artistic empowerment.
OUR VISION
Through transcending barriers, fostering connection, and empowering individuals in communities, playOUT! envisions a world where LGBTQIA+ voices continue to be amplified through the transformative powers of music. Founded in 2018 by Chicago cellist David Sands, playOUT! began as a grassroots effort to share his coming out story through the voices of queer composers. We strive to create inclusive spaces where artistry and identity intersect, ensuring that the legacy of diversity and equity in the arts continues to thrive.
OUR VALUES
COMING SOON!
JEDI STATEMENT
At PlayOut!, JEDI values are not static ideals but dynamic commitments that evolve as we learn, listen, and grow. We are dedicated to fostering an artistic landscape where equity and excellence intersect, ensuring that the voices of LGBTQIA+ communities resonate far into the future.
Justice: We actively challenge inequities within the classical music world and beyond, creating pathways for LGBTQIA+ artists and composers to thrive without bias or discrimination. Through intentional programming and partnerships, we aim to disrupt historical exclusions and champion equitable opportunities for all.
Equity: We are dedicated to redistributing resources, opportunities, and recognition to individuals and communities who have been marginalized in the arts. This includes prioritizing projects that spotlight intersectional identities and addressing disparities in representation.
Diversity: We celebrate the richness of our differences—be they cultural, personal, or artistic—and view them as essential to the transformative power of music. Our performances and initiatives reflect a kaleidoscope of experiences, perspectives, and identities.
Inclusion: We cultivate spaces where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute. From our performers to our audiences,inclusion is not just a practice; it is the foundation of our community.
