Business Details
28 Years
experience
Inclusive Performing Arts for LGBTQIA+ Community
Founded in 1998, Rainbow City Band has dedicated over 25 years to creating inclusive musical spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies. Our organization operates seven primary ensembles and numerous chamber groups, performing across Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. We prioritize equity in musical representation by featuring works from marginalized composers and fostering community through collaborative performances. Our programs include free instrument loans, income-based participation options, and scholarship initiatives to ensure accessibility for all musicians. With a volunteer-driven structure of over 40 active contributors, we maintain year-round operations while maintaining our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.Our social justice mission extends beyond performances through partnerships with local LGBTQIA+ organizations and community fundraising efforts. We provide educational opportunities through workshops, mentorship programs, and performance masterclasses. Our commitment to diversity spans musical genres, performance formats, and audience engagement strategies. Through initiatives like the Amplifying Diverse Voices commission project, we actively support emerging artists from underrepresented backgrounds. Our governance structure includes elected board members and specialized committees ensuring community-driven decision-making.
Services
Concert Band
Orchestra
Jazz Band
Marching Band
Drumline
Color Guard
Chamber Ensembles
Community Partnerships
Educational Programs
Volunteer Opportunities
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We offer inclusive musical opportunities for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies since 1998
- Our ensembles perform across seven musical formats throughout the year
- We provide free instrument loans and income-based participation options
- Our programs feature works by marginalized composers and contemporary arrangements
- We maintain active community partnerships with local LGBTQIA+ organizations
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
What people say
Inclusive community
Diverse performances
Welcoming atmosphere
Community impact
Accessible programs
Services
Concert Band
Rainbow City Concert Band presents classical and contemporary wind music through seasonal performances. This ensemble welcomes musicians of all skill levels who can read sheet music. Performances occur during fall, winter, and spring seasons at major Seattle venues like Benaroya Hall.
Orchestra
Rainbow City Orchestra reimagines traditional orchestral performance with contemporary arrangements and LGBTQIA+ themed programming. The ensemble combines classical instrumentation with modern interpretations, focusing on works by marginalized composers and pieces addressing current social issues.
Jazz Band
Jazz Band performs big band swing classics and modern arrangements at community events and seasonal dances. The ensemble includes both standard jazz repertoire and contemporary adaptations, featuring regular performances at Seattle Center venues during holiday seasons.
Marching Band
Founded in 1998, the Marching Band performs at summer parades and festivals throughout the Pacific Northwest. Combined with Color Guard and Drumline, this ensemble brings musical energy to outdoor events including Seattle Pride Parade and community celebrations.
Community Partnerships
We collaborate with local LGBTQIA+ organizations through joint performances and fundraising initiatives. Partners include Pride Foundation, Lambert House, and Seattle Pride Hockey Association. These collaborations include benefit concerts, educational workshops, and community outreach programs.
People
Damien Hall
Executive Director
Damien Hall leads Rainbow City Band as Executive Director, overseeing organizational strategy and operations. With experience in percussion, saxophone, clarinet, and vocal performance, he brings both artistic and administrative expertise to the role.
Caleb Gomes
Artistic Director and Music Coordinator
Caleb Gomes serves as Artistic Director and Music Coordinator, managing musical programming and ensemble coordination. A Seattle-based composer and arranger, they bring expertise in French Horn and Mellophone performance to their leadership role.
Kahle Gorzelsky
Board Chair
Kahle Gorzelsky chairs the board while contributing as a musician, audio engineer, and educator. Their leadership combines artistic vision with operational expertise, guiding strategic direction while maintaining active involvement in performance activities.
Andrea Streissguth
Board Treasurer
Andrea Streissguth serves as Board Treasurer and Finance Committee Lead, bringing financial expertise to organizational governance. Originally from Alabama, she contributes both professional experience and community perspective to financial stewardship.
Colin Wilfrid
Board Vice Chair
Colin Wilfrid acts as Board Vice Chair while managing governance and personnel matters. Their leadership combines administrative oversight with ongoing engagement in organizational activities and community relations.
Questions
What types of musical ensembles do you offer?
We offer seven primary ensembles: Concert Band, Orchestra, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Drumline, Color Guard, and Chamber Ensembles, plus specialized groups like Reign City Riot.
How can I join Rainbow City Performing Arts?
Complete our membership request form to explore ensemble opportunities. Auditions are available for interested musicians who can read sheet music and support our mission.
Are there performance opportunities for new members?
Yes! Members participate in regular concerts, community events, and seasonal performances. Chamber ensembles also organize special performances throughout the year.
Do you provide instruments for members?
We offer instrument loans for members who need assistance obtaining their instruments through our member-funded program.
How does your organization support the LGBTQIA+ community?
We create inclusive musical spaces, feature works by marginalized composers, partner with local LGBTQIA+ organizations, and host benefit performances for community causes.
What volunteer opportunities are available?
We have roles in event production, administrative support, and committee participation. Visit our volunteer portal to explore current opportunities matching your skills.
