MenAlive, Orange County Gay Men's Chorus, Announces Bob Gunn as Next Artistic Director

MenAlive, the Gay Men's Chorus of Orange County announced the selection of their next artistic director beginning with the 2014-2015 season. Current Assistant Artistic Director, Bob Gunn has been named Artistic Director of MenAlive to lead the group into its next phase of development. A search committee chose Gunn, after a thorough vetting, from amongst a group [Image: Bob Gunn] of other highly qualified applicants.

The current Artistic Director, Rich Cook announced his retirement from the chorus this season. Cook founded MenAlive 13 years ago and MenAlive credits its success to his tireless efforts and leadership. Gunn will be publicly introduced at their "Beatles" concerts March 28th and 29th. (See www.menAliveChorus.org for details and tickets information.)

"We are very grateful to Rich Cook. We are also excited for Rich as he enters into a new phase of his life with a focus on composing," said MenAlive Board President, James Vaughn.

Bob Gunn has had a broad musical career, with experience as pianist, keyboardist, singer, producer, conductor, arranger, orchestrator and even recording artist. After graduating college, Gunn spent many years on the road performing with several Christian rock groups. He has served as Assistant Director of MenAlive since 2002. MenAlive believes Gunn provides them not only with the benefit of a familiar face but new ideas and opportunities to expand their reach further into the Orange County and regional area.

MenAlive plans to reintroduce itself next season as a vital, unique part of both the LGBT and the broader Orange County communities.

"MenAlive isn't just an arts group," said Vaughn. "We are often the first place where family, friends, coworkers and others experience our community as people; and not just a political or health issue. That introduction makes it easier for other organizations to follow up on those vital issues of equality, health care and legal protection. "

About MenAlive: MenAlive - The Orange County Gay Men's Chorus was founded in 2001 by Artistic Director Rich Cook. In the short time since, MenAlive has quickly grown into one of Orange County's largest choruses and an active & respected partner in Southern California's arts scene.

Since its first rehearsal in September 2001, MenAlive has grown from 13 singers to more than 130 singers today, with a support team of more than 50 volunteers. The Chorus is run by a Board of Directors composed of both singing and non-singing members. It is a 501(c)3 non-profit arts organization.