History

The Lakeside Pride musical ensembles were formed in the summer of 1997. Begun by Jon Dallas as the Chicago Black Lesbian and Gay Marching Band, the name was later changed to reflect the all-inclusive nature of the group. Since then, the band has grown to embody this vision of diversity, along the way performing at events big and small in Chicago and beyond!

The idea of a lesbian and gay community band in Chicago stretches back much farther than the formation of the Lakeside Pride itself, however. In fact, our national organization, Lesbian and Gay Bands of America, was founded right here in 1982, at a meeting attended by seven independent lesbian and gay bands from across the country, including one from Chicago. LGBA has since grown to include over 20 members bands in the U.S., Canada, and Australia. After many successful years, however, the original band in Chicago disbanded.

Only recently has a dedicated group of individuals come together, interested in reviving the idea of a lesbian and gay community band right here in the movement's very birthplace. Through their efforts, Lakeside Pride has reclaimed a place for Chicago in this international family of lesbian and gay music-making. The band's rapid growth has continued ever since, and we're looking forward to many more fruitful years to come!

Timeline

1997

June 29 - Drum major Jon Dallas performs in the 1997 Chicago Pride Parade with the Greater Chicago Committee (GCC) to promote the marching band concept.
July 8 - Organizational meeting for the Chicago Black Lesbian and Gay Marching Band. Five people were in attendance, not all of which were people of color.
July 28 - First formal rehearsal for the band at Gill Park in Chicago, with seven people in attendance.
September 9 - Band establishes permanent rehearsal space at the Preston Bradley Center.
December 9 - Band selects the name Lakeside Pride Freedom Band.
December 21 - First public performance by members of the LPFB

1998

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June 28 - At right, the band's first appearance in the Chicago Pride Parade: a 10-piece pep band rides a flatbed truck! Photo
August 8 - Band performs at North Halsted Market Days
December 18 & 20 - Christmas concerts at both Gentry locations

1999

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April 24 - First out-of-town performance, at Illinois State University Photo
June 27 - Marching Band's debut in the 30th Annual Chicago Pride Parade, with 32 members performing. Band placed as one of the top six entries. Photos
August 8 - First trip out-of-state, at Milwaukee PrideFest. Photos
August 29 - First official rehearsal of the Lakeside Pride Concert Band
August 31 - First official Small Ensemble chartered, the Brass Choir.
October 17 - Band's first board of directors is approved.
December 5 - First formal performance by the Lakeside Pride Concert Band, with Gerald Cole directing the 42 members. Photos

2000

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January 22 - Lakeside Pride Jazz Ensemble's official debut, at a benefit for the Lesbian Community Cancer Project.

March 28 - The Lakeside Pride musical ensembles are incorporated under Playing Out Productions.
April 16 - First Spring Concert, with 45 members on stage. Thomas Kowalczyk debuts as director.
June 25 - 50 members lead the Chicago Pride Parade, before a record 350,000 spectators. Color Guard's debut season. Photos
December 10 - Rev. Gregory Dell & Artemis Singers are guests at the 2nd annual Sleigh Ride concert. 52 members performing.

2001

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January 2 - Playing Out Productions achieves 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

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