For the New Mexico Women’s Chorus, music has always been about more than harmony. Since its founding three decades ago, the ensemble has centered social justice as both its mission and its method. Singers from across the community come together to use their collective voice as a form of expression and action.
That purpose takes center stage in the chorus’ upcoming concert, Fired Up! Songs of Protest and Revolution, a program shaped directly by the political moment and the emotions of its members.
“We were founded 30 years ago in 1994 in Albuquerque, really, to bring together singers that wanted to spread a message of social justice,” says Deanna Lilley-Shaughnessy, vice chair of the New Mexico Women’s Chorus.
Unlike many traditional choirs, the group is nonauditioned and intentionally inclusive, welcoming singers with a wide range of musical backgrounds and experience levels. “We encourage members with all kinds of ranges and musical knowledge and ability,” says Lilley-Shaughnessy.
To support that diversity, the chorus provides learning resources so singers who cannot read music rehearse alongside those with formal vocal training, ensuring accessibility remains central to the ensemble’s work.
Another defining feature of the chorus is its collaborative approach to the programming. Each season begins with members gathering to determine an overarching theme, after which singers are invited to submit songs they feel align with the concept. Those submissions are reviewed by a music selection committee made up of chorus members and musical staff, including the artistic director and accompanist, who consider musical range, feasibility, and how well each piece fits the group as a whole.
This year’s theme emerged during a particularly charged moment. “This particular theme was determined on the Sunday following the presidential election,” says Lilley-Shaughnessy. “So as I’m sure you can imagine, there were a lot of feelings in the room, and a lot of emotions were high.” The result was a unanimous decision to focus on protest music. Songs that speak to resistance, frustration and resilience.
That emotional grounding carries through the entire program. “This specific performance is full of passion,” says Lilley-Shaughnessy, describing the concert as one of the ways the chorus process and expresses what its members are feeling in the current social and political climate.
The chorus’ commitment to social justice extends beyond the stage. In addition to performances, the group regularly participates in community events, supports local organizations through donation drives and volunteers throughout the year. “We want to be active and helpful in our community as well,” says Lilley-Shaughnessy, noting that members often present at protests, pride events and other community gatherings.
Audience support, Lilley-Shaughnessy emphasizes, plays a vital role in sustaining both the organization and its singers. “Come to our concerts, cheer on our singers,” says Lilley-Shaughnessy. “Not only does that support us financially, but it really means a lot for our singers to know that the community appreciates the message that we’re sharing.”
The New Mexico Women’s Chorus will present Fired Up! Songs of Protest and Revolution on Jan. 17 at 7 p.m. at First Unitarian Church and Jan. 18 at 4 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Albuquerque.
Fired Up! Songs of Protest and Revolution
Jan. 17, 7 p.m.
First Unitarian Church
3701 Carlisle Blvd. NE
Jan. 18, 4 p.m.
First Presbyterian Church of Albuquerque
215 Locust NE.
Ticket Prices:
Seniors/Students: $13
Advance Purchase Online: $15
At The Door: $20
