Jordan Michels joined Heartland Men’s Chorus in September 2020.  

Why did you want to join?

I was in need of a place to escape and be able to just experience the joy of making music. I honestly didn’t know much about the choir beforehand, but I was warmly welcomed in. Even though the pandemic hit before I could join in person I was still able to join and experience a wonderful place to make meaningful music virtually. Through my computer screen, I felt such positive vibes that have helped me more than you know.

What song makes you happy?

‘Shake It Out’ (Glee version though) is so beautiful with all the different voices. Runner up, ‘I Give It All’ from the FOX TV Show “Star”. Gospel and I are barely acquainted, but this song is my new best friend. 

What are you looking forward to after the pandemic? 

Leaving my house and leaving my computer off to come to choir practice. Secondly, not wearing a mask. It’s the simple things for me. Haha.

Meet the new HMCKC Board Chair Eric Aufdengarten

Sponsor Spotlight – Aspis Consulting

Aspis Consulting joined as a sponsor during Season 37 and has continued to support the chorus in so many ways. The cybersecurity consulting firm also became part of our Disney Producer’s Circle that helped HMCKC produce and bring to the stage at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, ‘Disney Pride in Concert.’

Aspis Consulting’s values include community and diversity. There is no greater joy for us than when our values align with a worthy community organization. By sponsoring a local arts organization such as the chorus, we live our values and display our authentic selves out loud.  We view our partnership as an investment into a shared mission of building community, celebrating pride, and empowering authenticity.” 

Jeff Wagner, Aspis

Meet New HMCKC Board Member: Danny Shervington-Bair

The HMCKC Board of Directors welcomed two new members starting in August. One of those is very familiar with the chorus because he is also a singing member. Danny Shervington-Bair is no stranger to the stage and also to Kansas City. Danny joined HMCKC in January of 2022 and his first concert was ‘Whitney’ in March of 2022. 

“I joined the HMC Chorus and the board because it has helped me find my voice within the LGBTQ+ community. Singing with this vibrant group not only rekindled my passion for music but also provided a creative outlet that I had been missing for years. Moreover, being part of this community work has helped me build my confidence and become more actively involved in making a positive impact,” says Shervington-Bair.

See Danny and the rest of the chorus in ‘A Very Merry Christmas Pageant’ December 2nd and 3rd at the Folly Theater and December 10th at Yardley Hall. Tickets at hmckc.org.