Lesbian & Gay Big Apple Corps
The Lesbian & Gay Big Apple Corps is a community band based in New York City. Founded on September 24, 1979 as the New York Gay Community Marching Band, LGBAC is the third-oldest community band in the United States dedicated to serving the LGBT community. The mission of LGBAC is to provide the lesbian and gay community with a supportive and friendly environment for musical and artistic expression and, through performance, to promote social acceptance, equality, and harmony for all. Membership is all-inclusive, predominantly lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer, and the band welcomes heterosexual players as well. The band performs year-round as both a concert band and a marching band.
As a concert band, LGBAC traditionally produces two concerts each year, one in the fall and the other in the spring. Chamber music concerts are offered occasionally. The Symphonic Band's Artistic Director is Kelly Watkins.
As a marching band, LGBAC marches in a wide variety of events, predominantly gay pride marches, July 4 parades, and the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade. The marching band includes a featured baton twirler, color guard and honor guard.
