Since 2010, the Washington National Opera (WNO) Chorus has turned its voice into a lifeline for AGMA members in need, hosting a benefit concert for the AGMA Relief Fund. This tradition, born in the basement of the Kennedy Center, is now a cornerstone of the chorus’s identity, combining talent, compassion, and union solidarity.
“The very first concert came together thanks to a group of WNO Choristers and our Chorus Master, Steven Gathman,” recalled Alexandra “Alex” Christoforakis, AGMA Governor and a proud member of the WNO Chorus. “They gathered in an orchestra break room to brainstorm how we could support our fellow union members. From there, they organized a musical program, secured a venue, and even sought corporate donations and media coverage. It was grassroots in every sense, and it set the tone for what has become a deeply meaningful tradition.”
Now in its sixth iteration, the benefit concert continues to grow each year, drawing on the dedication and talents of more than 60 AGMA choristers who volunteer their time to make it happen. “Planning starts six or seven months out,” Christoforakis explained. “A committee of about ten chorus members, plus Maestro Gathman, take on everything from securing the venue to organizing rehearsals, creating the program, purchasing music, and managing donations. Everyone pitches in, and it’s amazing to see how it all comes together. My role is focused on social media, but there’s so much other work happening behind the scenes.”
This year’s concert held on March 2 at St. Ann Catholic Church followed a tried and true format, featuring two sections: one dedicated to opera and the other to non-opera choral works. “All of our non-opera pieces this year were composed by women, which was incredibly inspiring, especially during Women’s History Month,” Christoforakis shared. “The opera selections came from recent productions we’ve performed, including Macbeth, Fidelio, and Turandot. It’s a carefully curated program that celebrates both the artistry of our chorus and the diversity of the repertoire.”
“The Washington National Opera Chorus gave a profoundly moving performance, singing music with themes that resonate deeply with our current events,” said Ned Hanlon, AGMA President, who attended the dress rehearsal. “These incredible artists volunteered their time to uplift their fellow union members, all while facing their own uncertainties—not only in the arts world but also because many of them work in, or have family working in, federal government agencies. Yet, the strong community they have built, thanks to the tireless efforts of these dedicated artist-advocates, stands as a testament to their resilience and unity.”
For the WNO Chorus, this event is about more than raising funds—it’s about embodying the values of solidarity and support that define their union. “We’re not just colleagues; we’re a family,” Christoforakis said. “There’s a deep sense of community within this group, and it’s in our nature to step up and help where we can.”
The impact of the WNO Chorus’s work has even inspired other AGMA members to follow their lead. “I’ve had people from other AGMA signatories reach out about organizing their own benefit concerts,” Christoforakis noted. “While it’s a lot of work, it’s incredibly rewarding. If anyone is thinking of starting their own benefit, I’d be happy to help them get started.”
Although the final fundraising total for this year’s concert is still being tallied, the WNO Chorus can confirm nearly $9,000 has been raised.
The AGMA Relief Fund graciously accepts donations year-round through its official website. In the notes section, donors can specify that their contribution was inspired by the WNO Chorus Relief Fund Benefit Concert.