Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus Announces New Artistic Director & Conductor, Chase Shoemaker
DES MOINES, IA - February 16, 2026 – The Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus (DMGMC) is proud to introduce Chase Shoemaker as its new Artistic Director & Conductor, following a 6-month national search that drew a strong pool of highly qualified candidates. Shoemaker will officially assume the role this spring and will make his conducting debut with DMGMC at the Chorus’ 25th Anniversary Concert, The Silver Party, in June.
The Chorus’s fourth Artistic Director in its 25-year history, Chase brings with him a compelling combination of musical excellence, educational leadership, and a deep commitment to inclusive, community-centered music-making.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chase to DMGMC,” said Paul Hengesteg, President of the DMGMC Board and a singing member of the Chorus. “He is an accomplished musician and educator with a wonderful sense of humor, and as an Iowa native, he deeply understands what it means to be part of the LGBTQ+ community in this state. His educational pedigree, skillful conducting, and unique talent for connecting singers to the deep, emotional journey our music can provide for ourselves and our audiences made him stand out for this vital leadership role with DMGMC.”
Shoemaker is an award-winning composer and choral conductor with extensive experience across educational, community, church, and professional choral settings. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Simpson College and a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from Portland State University. His work as an educator, composer, and clinician has earned recognition from organizations including the Iowa Choral Directors Association and the Iowa Composers Forum, and his compositions have been performed by ensembles across Iowa and beyond.
Currently based in central Iowa, Shoemaker has spent more than a decade directing choirs ranging from children’s ensembles to university and community choruses. His artistic approach emphasizes vocal health, expressive storytelling, and intentional programming that reflects diverse lived experiences.
“I am incredibly honored and excited to join the Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus,” Shoemaker said. “DMGMC has a powerful legacy of using music to build community, foster belonging, and tell meaningful stories. I look forward to making music together that celebrates who we are, challenges us artistically, and creates moments of joy and connection for both our singers and our audiences.”
Hengesteg added, “Chase is a forward-thinking leader who will serve DMGMC well as we continue to grow and thrive as a premier LGBTQ+ chorus locally, regionally, and nationally. We are confident he will help carry our mission forward while honoring the strong foundation built over the past 25 years.”
The Board also expressed gratitude to the search committee for its work throughout the recruitment process. “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the search committee, chaired by board member Jenica Johnson, for their steadfast work,” Hengesteg said. “Additional committee members included Associate Artistic Director Ben Hagen, General Manager Tristan Miedema, and singing members Maxwell Keller, John L’Estrange, and Doug Staudt.”
Opportunities to meet Shoemaker and experience his artistic vision will be available throughout the spring, leading into his debut performance at The Silver Party in June.
For media inquiries:
515-200-2798
About Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus
The Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus is dedicated to fostering community and inclusivity through the power of choral music. With performances that celebrate diversity, DMGMC has become a vital part of the cultural landscape in Des Moines and beyond.
