The road we have traveled together over the last 30 years
The Birth and Growth of the New Mexico Women’s Chorus
Upon her return, Peggy connected with other local women who shared her interest in women’s music. Together, they decided to form a community chorus dedicated to this genre. The original group of six women, led by director Karen Kinsman, began meeting on Sundays at the First Congregational Church to rehearse.
Their dedication and hard work paid off. By June 1995, the New Mexico Women’s Chorus was ready for their first full concert. This milestone marked the beginning of a vibrant musical journey, bringing the unique and powerful voices of women’s music to the Albuquerque community.
As the chorus grew over the years, they sought to become more organized. In 2000, they officially became a performing arts nonprofit under the umbrella of Turquoise Trail Performing Arts (TTPA).
Also in 2000, the New Mexico Women’s Chorus attended their first Gay and Lesbian Association (GALA) of Choruses International Festival in San Jose, CA. Over the last 30 years, they have performed alongside women’s music pioneers like Holly Near and Lucie Blue Tremblay. They have also performed for New Mexico United, Zia Rodeo, The Senior Olympics, and will be seen in an upcoming Netflix series.
Today, the New Mexico Women’s Chorus is 50 singers strong. Specializing in social justice music, written, performed, or made famous by women, they can be found performing throughout the community entertaining, educating and inspiring audiences. The largest focus of this community chorus is community. The New Mexico Women’s Chorus is a non-auditioned chorus open to anyone who wants to sing, regardless of gender identity.
But what happened to Peggy Roberts? This founding mother can still be found singing with the Alto 2’s.
