Every commission begins with a voice…
Thanks to a generous micro-grant from the LGBTQ Community Fund at The Chicago Community Trust, playOUT! is proud to pilot its first education initiative with Trans Up Front IL.
In communications technology, VOX refers to systems activated by a person's voice, while in music it commonly refers to the human voice itself. For playOUT!, the name reflects a simple but powerful belief: LGBTQ+ voices deserve to be heard, celebrated, and preserved through the creation of new works of art. Every Project VOX initiative centers LGBTQ+ lived experiences and empowers community members to help shape the stories that inspire tomorrow's music.
We’re honored to share that playOUT! has been selected as one of the 2026–27 cohort awardees for New Music USA’s New Music Inc. – Chicago program. This 18-month incubator brings together a cohort of artist-led organizations committed to building sustainable, community-centered models for new music, combining financial support with mentorship and peer learning.
This recognition affirms our ongoing work to amplify LGBTQIA voices in classical music and deepen our impact through performances, commissions, and partnerships across Chicago’s cultural landscape.
NEW MUSIC INC GRANTEES!!!
One of a kind…
playOUT! is a pioneering non-profit dedicated to amplifying LGBTQIA artistry in classical music. Through performances, commissioned works, and partnerships, we break barriers and create space for queer voices to thrive in the classical world.