NYCGMC is a LGBTQ+ music organization operated by Big Apple Performing Arts, Inc. (BAPA) that expresses itself through song and other performing arts. NYCGMC sings fabulously and celebrates the joy and power of music. We provide a safe and inclusive space, respecting the entire range of gender expression and gender identity, race, ethnicity, national origin, socioeconomic background, sexual orientation, and attraction. In consideration of being an “Associate” of this organization, you agree to adhere to the expectations and requirements of this Agreement.
Associate Agreement and Code of Conduct
By clicking the “Yes - Accept and agree” button below, you agree to the abide by the following Code of Conduct as it relates to your participation with NYCGMC, affiliate organizations, aritists, guests, and members.
Rehearsal Etiquette
Rehearsals start promptly at the time scheduled.
Stay focused during the rehearsal and on the art. Any behavior that distracts from rehearsal activity can be disruptive to other singers and disrespectful of the artistic staff.
Treat each other with respect, kindness, and acceptance. Behavior that could be considered abusive, threatening, or bullying could result in termination of Associate status.
Music
All music is distributed electronically. Associates are expected to download and/or print their music prior to the rehearsal when it will be rehearsed. Distributed music is licensed specifically for use by NYCGMC. It must not be shared outside of the organization in any way and may only be used as part of NYCGMC’s rehearsals or performance projects. These licenses do not extend any rights for personal use or use by any other organization(s) Associates may be part of. Associates must adhere to the limits of these licenses and use music only as intended, for rehearsal and performance projects with NYCGMC. Abiding by these requirements supports and protects our fellow artists and our organization.
Legal Entity
NYCGMC operates under the corporate umbrella of Big Apple Performing Arts, Inc. (BAPA). The BAPA bylaws state that BAPA shall be operated exclusively for charitable, educational, and cultural purposes. BAPA is compliant with the character described in Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of the United States, or any superseding federal statute, and the New York Not-for-Profit Corporation Law, and the regulations thereunder.
Personal Behavior
Respect for Fellow Associates, Members, and Staff
NYCGMC is composed of people with widely different backgrounds. It is the policy of the NYCGMC to treat everyone, Associates, members, and staff alike, as professionals. This includes: respect for each other as people; the right to have and express public opinions and to do so in a constructive manner; respect for the role each of us plays in the organization; due process before action is taken; and taking responsibility for our own actions.
Respect for NYCGMC Brand
NYCGMC’s name and logo are important and valuable assets, and BAPA holds the trademark to the names “NYCGMC,” “New York City Gay Men’s Chorus,” and “Big Gay Sing.” Casual use of these assets can diminish their effectiveness, and we take great care to guard them. The names “New York City Gay Men’s Chorus,” “NYCGMC,” and “Big Gay Sing” and all NYCGMC logos in all forms, current and past, may not be used in any way, shape, or form without the express consent of the organization.
Respect for NYCGMC Property
The organization has sole authority over any and all property owned and used by the NYCGMC.
This includes but is not limited to:
Name Trademarks, logos, and other representations
Any licensed materials, including digital or printed music and arrangements
Social media (Facebook, Twitter & Instagram)
Patents, copyrights, royalties, and other intellectual property
Physical assets (office equipment, musical instruments, printed music, computers, software, NYCGMC Queen crown and jewels, NYCGMC Butch Cap and Sash, etc.)
General merchandise Information and data (roster, mailing lists, contact information, financial information, etc.)
Promotional items (banners, flags)
AIDS Memorial Quilt
At any official NYCGMC function, if an Associate is planning to engage in an activity that could impact our brand or reputation or place BAPA at risk of financial loss or obligation as a result of potential physical harm, the Associate must advise the Executive Director in writing and get approval in advance before proceeding with that activity.
Use of Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool and we encourage Associates to use social media constructively to promote NYCGMC events, outreach efforts, and our mission. Associates are free to upload, embed, or repost official materials that have been posted by the organization. It should also be noted that social media can be not constructive as well, and as a NYCGMC Associate you should be mindful to use electronic media responsibly and respectfully. It shall be considered a breach of acceptable Associate conduct to link to or post on any public website, whether in a public or private setting, any of the following:
Anything that may harm the brand or reputation of NYCGMC or any disparaging information about NYCGMC or BAPA
Any disparaging, discriminatory, or harassing information concerning any Associate, staff, board member, vendor, guest artist, or other person associated with BAPA
Any confidential information or intellectual property of BAPA, including information relating to finances, development, marketing, donors, customers, operations, plans, and policies
Any private information relating to a member, donor, customer, staff, or vendor of BAPA
Any sheet music (pdf or photograph), rehearsal recordings, audio recordings, rehearsal video, performance video, programs (pdf or photograph), or any other unlicensed material
Any photos of other Associates, including tagging photos of other Associates, without their consent
Associates who link or post to any of the content noted above will be asked to remove the content immediately. Failure to do so in a timely manner may result in actions up to and including termination of membership at the discretion of the organization.
Confidentiality and Personal Behavior
Associates of the NYCMGC are expected to respect each other’s privacy, and the organization will make every reasonable effort to respect the confidentiality of NYCGMC Associates. While the NYCMGC is clear in its mission as an openly queer organization, we must all remain cognizant of others’ individual situations and the degree to which they are willing and/or able to be “out” at home, in the community, or in the workplace. Violating the privacy of another is looked upon very seriously by the organization and could result in Board action regarding an Associate's status. If you feel that your privacy has been compromised, notify a member of the organization's leadership team.