Singing for their lives: NM Women's Chorus celebrates 30 years with 'Pearls of Change' performance

In a milestone celebration of three decades of music, the New Mexico Women’s Chorus (NMWC) invites the community to its anniversary concert series, “Pearls of Change: 30 Years of Song.”

Performances will be held at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 18, at the South Broadway Cultural Center, and at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, at Mesa View Methodist Church.

“The title ‘Pearls of Change’ was inspired by the pearl as a symbol of 30 years of marriage,” said Deanna Lilley-Shaughnessy, vice chair of the chorus.

Singing for their lives: NM Women's Chorus celebrates 30 years with 'Pearls of Change' performance

Director Tracy Lang said that pearls represent honesty and wisdom, while “change” reflects their motto: “Changing the world one song at a time.”

Audiences can expect a program that spans the group’s 30-year history, with songs selected by chorus members to represent each decade. According to Lang, members submitted over 100 song suggestions, which were narrowed down by the music selection committee to a final list of ten, with two alternates. These songs highlight not only the chorus’ journey but also its focus on meaningful, socially conscious music.

In addition to performances by the full chorus, the group’s subgroup, Hot Flashes, will perform two songs. The event will culminate in a special moment when former members join the current chorus to sing their signature closing song, Holly Near’s “Singing For Our Lives.”

The concerts also double as a community outreach effort. Attendees are encouraged to bring hygiene products to support Crossroads for Women, a local organization aiding women in need.

Founded in 1994 with just six members, the New Mexico Women’s Chorus has grown into a vibrant and inclusive community of nearly 50 singers. While the group initially focused on traditional women’s music, it has since expanded its repertoire to specialize in social justice music, often highlighting issues such as immigration, environmental justice and Indigenous rights.

“Today, we focus on social justice music written, performed or made famous by women,” Lang said.

The group’s evolution reflects a commitment to inclusion, celebrating diverse gender identities and welcoming individuals from all backgrounds. This inclusivity has become a cornerstone of NMWC’s identity over the years.

For its members, the chorus is a place of acceptance and belonging. Many members, particularly those in or allied with the LGBTQIA+ community, have found a supportive and affirming space within NMWC. Lang said the group’s sense of camaraderie is perfectly captured in two of the songs featured in this concert: “Chosen Family” by Rina Sawayama and Elton John, and “You Will Be Found” from the musical “Dear Evan Hansen.”

“This is our chosen family,” Lang said. “Together, we are all welcome, loved and supported.”

Lilley-Shaughnessy said, “This group has grown and evolved so much, and we’re very excited to be celebrating that.”

Tickets for “Pearls of Change” can be purchased in advance or at the door. VIP tickets for the Saturday performance are available, and discounted prices are offered for seniors and students. For more information, visit nmwomenschorus.org.