Founded in Paris in 1994, Mélo'Men now comprises 55 gay and gay-friendly choir members of 15 different nationalities. Under the musical direction of John Dawkins, we enjoy creating a dialogue between different repertoires, from classical to pop, and devising projects that combine artistic rigour, openness and the joy of singing together.
About
Our Musical World: High Standards and Boldness
Mélo'Men stands out for its strong commitment to diversity and contrast, and its constant quest to push the boundaries. With no stylistic boundaries, our repertoire brings together works from all backgrounds, by composers from various eras, ranging from songs drawn from international and French folklore to the energy of pop culture:
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The Classical: Iconic sacred and secular pieces (Duruflé, Mahler, Rossini), enriched by original works commissioned by the choir and collaborations with orchestras.
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Pop & Variety: A dynamic repertoire, both French and international, brought to life on stage through modern harmonies and choreographed performances.
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Works drawn from international and French folklore, which broaden horizons and delight the ears with an invitation to a musical journey.
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An International Outlook: The choir explores and performs pieces in more than 25 languages, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of its members.
Over the course of three decades, our choir members’ passion and hard work have won over a loyal audience, taking our voices to exceptional venues:
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In Paris: L'Olympia, Bercy, City Hall, Saint-Sulpice Church, Pavillon de la Sirène, Petit Palais and the Lido.
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Abroad: Carnegie Hall (New York), Queen Elizabeth Hall (Londres), Tonhalle (Zürich), BOZAR (Brussels), and many other exchanges with partner choirs across Europe.
As a committed participant in the LGBTQIA+ choir scene, Mélo'Men has taken part with pride in the European Various Voices festival since 1997 (Bologna, Munich, Dublin, London, Berlin, Brussels). In 2005, we had the honor of serving as the host and organizing choir for the festival in Paris.
From Paris to International Venues
Our Musical Direction
After completing his studies at the University of Reading in the UK, John settled in Paris and has since dedicated a significant part of his career to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community through his work with the men's choir Mélo'Men, the mixed choir Equivox, and, since its inception 22 years ago, the Rainbow Symphony Orchestra.
John has worked with many renowned musicians over the years, including Laurence Equilbey, Jean-Claude Casadesus, Michel Legrand, and Annie Cordy, as well as the stage director Jérôme Savary. He has also performed in the presence of Princess Diana and Quincy Jones. John's career has led him to conduct in numerous prestigious concert halls around the world, including the Carnegie Hall (New York), the Queen Elizabeth Hall and the Royal Academy of Music (London), the Tonhalle (Zurich), Grace Cathedral (San Francisco), the Opéra Comique, Salle Gaveau and the Lido (Paris), and the opera houses of Nîmes and Narbonne.
In addition, John currently works with the Jeune Chœur de Paris, the British School of Paris, and was recently appointed conductor of the orchestra at the Lycée Henri IV (Paris 5e).
Our Commitment: A Voice at the Heart of the City
For over 30 years, Mélo’Men has been bringing men together through singing and a proud gay identity. Through our concerts and events, we aim to contribute to a more open society, where everyone can be themselves to the full.
A history of commitment
Over the years, Mélo’Men has lent its voice to numerous LGBTQIA+ and solidarity initiatives:
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Combating discrimination: the International Day Against Homophobia, initiatives by SOS Homophobie, MAG and Le Refuge
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Showing solidarity: ‘Des Voix Contre le SIDA’ concerts, events organised by ‘Élus Locaux contre le SIDA’
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Keeping memories alive: Activities with Les Oubliés de la Mémoire and links now being developed with the LGBTQI+ Archives Centre
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Reaching out and connecting: Participation in Various Voices and meetings with LGBTQIA+ choirs from across Europe
Bonds that are growing today
Mélo’Men continues this commitment as part of a growing network of associations and cultural organisations.
LGBTQI+ Centre Paris–Île-de-France · Inter-LGBT+ · LGBTQI+ Archives Centre · LEGATO
We aim to strengthen these ties, contribute further to LGBTQIA+ visibility and remembrance, support solidarity initiatives and create new connections through music.
Making our voices heard, on stage and in the community.
Music to Break Down the Barriers
Every concert and every piece performed is an opportunity to connect with others. Whether it is a matter of captivating an audience gathered in a large concert hall or moving passers-by at an open-air concert, the emotion, the beauty of the pieces and the harmonies transcend prejudice. This is our greatest victory: fostering openness towards others, tolerance and dialogue through the joy of sharing and music.