I'm with the band

At presidential inaugurations and holiday celebrations, GLBT musicians have tooted their horns and pounded their bass drums for decades. Now, over 20 lesbian and gay marching bands thrive all over America.

Some bands, like the San Francisco group started in the 1970s by gay innovator Jon Sims, have a tradition of combining gay rights with music. Others have recently sprung up from the enthusiasm of related GLBT events like the Gay Games.

In high schools, the ranks of orchestra and bands seem to include a high proportion of "sensitive creative types." But are gay folk really more musically inclined? (A few band members sound off about that here.)

Whether you're a practiced percussionist or fledgling flautist, most gay bands welcome new members of all levels. Find out more about a GLBT symphonic or marching band near you. Practice your scales. Who knows? You might be strutting your stuff at the next Pride march.