More Than
Just Music

Tempo is the soundtrack of the queer community.

Joyful, fun and inclusive, distinctly celebrating music as a way to create connection and shared experiences.

ABOUT TEMPO

We are Tempo, Toronto's queer tenor-bass choir, and we're redefining what community sounds like.

Founded in 2023, Tempo was born from a simple truth: there needed to be a space where queer singers in the tenor to bass range could come together, be themselves, and create something extraordinary. As our co-founder Howie Dayton explained, "We wanted to create a space for queer members who are in the tenor-bass range to feel that there was an inclusive option."

Today, we're 70+ members strong, proving that when you remove barriers and centre joy, magic happens. We're an auditioned ensemble performing a vibrant mix of pop music, show tunes, queer anthems, and holiday classics, all in rich tenor-bass harmony that brings audiences to their feet. Our first showcase in 2024 was a sold-out success, and we haven't slowed down since.

We rehearse every Wednesday evening from 7:00 to 9:30pm at The 519 Community Centre, one of Toronto's most iconic 2SLGBTQIA+ spaces. This isn't just where we practice. It's where we build community, support each other, and have a damn good time doing it.

A group of people wearing black T-shirts with 'TEMPO' printed on them, celebrating and smiling, with Christmas hats and antler headbands, in a festive setting.

Our MISSION

Tempo brings queer voices together in harmony to deliver high-quality choral performances that inspire, entertain, and strengthen connection within Toronto's cultural life and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Our vision

To be a place where musical excellence and joy come together, creating powerful choral experiences that connect queer voices and communities.

Our CREATIVE Team

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DOUG HAMMOND ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Portrait of a smiling man with glasses, a beard, and short gray hair wearing a red polo shirt.

MICHAEL BENNETT
ASSISTANT ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

A smiling young man with short black hair wearing a blue button-up shirt.

DANIEL LAU ACCOMPANIST, PIANO

Frequently Asked Questions

Have more questions?

Contact us and we'll be happy to help.

  • We hold auditions twice a year: in early September for the Fall term (September to December) and in early January for the Winter/Spring term (January to June). Visit our Join Us page to learn more and sign up for audition notifications.

  • Auditions are required to ensure vocal blend and range, but you don't need professional training or need to know how to read music. While some experience is a benefit, we're looking for people who love to sing, can hold a harmony part, and want to be part of our community. If you're in the tenor, baritone, or bass range and identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ or an ally, we'd love to hear from you.

  • We perform a vibrant mix of pop music, show tunes, queer anthems, and holiday classics, all arranged for TTBB (tenor, baritone, and bass) voices. Our repertoire is contemporary, energetic, and designed to get audiences on their feet.

  • Yes! Tempo is available for corporate events, Pride celebrations, community gatherings, and private functions. Visit our Book a Performance page or contact us directly to discuss your event.

  • We rehearse every Wednesday from 7:00 to 9:30pm at The 519 Community Centre (519 Church Street). Our performances take place at various venues across Toronto, including Hugh's Room Live and special event spaces. Follow us on Instagram @tempochorus to stay updated on upcoming shows.

Contact us

Whether you're curious about joining, interested in booking a performance, or just want to say hello, we'd love to hear from you.

Drop us a line and we'll get back to you.