LONG BEACH, CA September 14, 2026 – The South Coast Chorale (SCC) has created a new merit-based dues-waiver program called the Hearts Program. The Hearts Program was created to memorialize members of the South Coast Chorale family who have passed away and to recognize the unique talents and contributions of its active and new members.
The first award issued is the Luis Mota Heart of Music Incentive Award, established in Luis's memory to recognize the musical talents and abilities of South Coast Chorale members. Luis Mota (1996-2024) was the Chorale's principal accompanist for Seasons 33 and 34. New members who went through the audition process were automatically considered.
The second award to be issued is the Ellie Rossi Heart of Community Service Award, established in Ellie’s memory to recognize the importance of South Coast Chorale members giving back to their local communities. Ellie Rossi (1946-2025) was a co-producer of nearly 30 Chorale productions, ranging from Season 25's "A Night at the Movies" Cabaret to the Season 36 concert, "Sincerely Yours, Pauli Murray." A former nurse, Ellie was a victims' rights advocate and a public speaker at events and support groups for family and friends of murder victims. Members of the Chorale are currently applying for this award.
Honorees will be announced at the Chorale’s first concert of the season, tentatively scheduled for November 1. More details about the concert will be released soon.
Entering its 37th season, the South Coast Chorale, the LGBTQ+ Chorus of Long Beach, is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit corporation and a membership organization. Membership dues are used for general operating and organizational costs. In addition to merit-based waivers, needs-based dues waivers and payment plans are available to Chorale members. For more information, the Chorale can be contacted at sing@southcoastchorale.org.
