Rocky Mountain Arts Association board names new artistic director to Denver Gay Men’s Chorus
Johnny Nichols, Jr., to take the helm this fall to start the 2023-24 season
Johnny Nichols, Jr., has been named Artistic Director of the Denver Gay Men’s Chorus (DGMC) by the Rocky Mountain Arts Association Board of Directors, the nonprofit umbrella organization that manages DGMC. Nichols will start his tenure in August as DGMC starts its 42nd season.
“We are thrilled Johnny is joining the Denver Gay Men’s Chorus,” said Stephen Hutt, RMAA chair of the artistic director search committee. “His extensive choral and performing arts experience, combined with his tailored focus on education and outreach, aligns with our mission, ‘building community through music.‘ We’re excited to see where he leads DGMC.”
“I am so thrilled to join the esteemed DGMC family,” said Nichols. “I believe in the power of community and am honored to take the helm and continue DGMC’s work for the LGBTQIA+ and other marginalized communities. I am committed to leading Denver’s premiere chorus and opening hearts and doors.”
Hear from Johnny here.
Nichols is finishing his tenure as Artistic Director for Ipswich River Community Chorus in North Reading, MA, and recently served as Assistant Conductor & Director of Education and Outreach for the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus, where he spearheaded educational initiatives and curriculum, including music-focused social justice learnings, conducting various ensembles, program development, and more. As Director of Education and Outreach for Revels, a national performing arts organization that celebrates culture and tradition in nine major cities, Nichols created adult and youth education programs and initiatives and programs for various venues such as schools, classrooms, libraries, in-house programming, and more. Prior, he served in positions with the Me Too Boston Chorus and Boston Children’s Chorus, among other posts.
Nichols received a Masters of Music from Texas Southern University and Bachelors of Music from the University of Louisiana Monroe.
Nichols’s appointment follows the retirement of James Knapp, who led DGMC as artistic and managing director since 2013. Knapp, who conducted for 41 years, 20 in GALA, is now Conductor Laureate and Director Emeritus. A diverse and representative group of current DGMC singers, staff, and RMAA board members served on the search committee.