• Based in San Francisco, CA
• Artistic Director and Conductor, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (250 voices)
• Opened for Tinashe and Kim Petras in 2025
• Performed at Outside Lands in 2025 with Big Freedia
• Collaborated with San Francisco Symphony, Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Lady Camden, and Justin Tranter
• Created annual Holiday Composition Competition for new TTBB works
• Previously served on choral faculty at Purdue University
• Featured by CBS News, ABC News, San Francisco Chronicle, and regional press
• Master of Music in Conducting, Butler University
• Focuses on authenticity, community empowerment, and queer cultural celebration

Jacob Stensberg is the Artistic Director and Conductor of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, leading more than 300 singers through bold, community-driven performances that celebrate queer joy, musical excellence, and artistic innovation. Known for his dynamic leadership and commitment to new music, he has expanded the Chorus’s creative reach through large-scale productions, collaborations, and nationally recognized programs. Stensberg previously served on the choral faculty of Purdue University, directing multiple ensembles and championing emerging composers.

Jacob Stensberg is an American conductor, educator, and artistic leader dedicated to building community through music. As Artistic Director and Conductor of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC), he leads one of the world’s most influential LGBTQ arts organizations—home to more than 300 singers and a legacy of activism, artistry, and social change.

Since his arrival in San Francisco, Stensberg has guided the Chorus toward a new era of artistic growth and cultural relevance. His concerts are known for their emotional resonance, musical precision, and imaginative storytelling, bringing together pop, classical, Broadway, and contemporary choral works. Under his leadership, SFGMC continues its tradition of commissioning new music, uplifting emerging composers, and performing works that center queer voices and experiences.

His major productions include the annual Holiday Spectacular, Pride celebrations, and collaborations with organizations across the Bay Area, including appearances with the San Francisco Symphony and multiple national-anthem performances at major sporting events. His work has been featured in regional and national press, including CBS News, ABC News, the San Francisco Business Times, the San Francisco Bay Times and the San Francisco Chronicle.

Before joining SFGMC, Stensberg spent four years on the faculty at Purdue University, where he conducted a wide portfolio of choral ensembles, taught private voice and conducting, and led community-engaged arts initiatives. He brings a strong commitment to education, mentorship, and the belief that choral singing can serve as a powerful bridge between people and communities.

Stensberg’s artistic philosophy is rooted in connection, curiosity, and courage, helping singers and audiences experience what he often calls “the notes between the notes,” the moments where music becomes meaning.

“My goal is simple: create moments where people feel more connected—to themselves, to each other, and to the world around them. Music is the bridge. Community is the engine. And love is the point. The work we do at SFGMC is about more than performance; it’s about building spaces where every person can feel seen and celebrated.”

San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus (SFGMC)

• Over 300 singing members
• Founded in 1978
• First openly gay choir in the world
• Commissioned over 500 new works, arrangements, and world premieres
• Known for large-scale productions blending storytelling, musical excellence, queer history, and community empowerment
• Stensberg conducts all flagship concerts and media appearances.