Diane Porsch
Meet Diane Porsch: Our Inspiring Director and Leader
Diane Porsch, a Certified Visual Communications Judge Specialist and International Faculty member, has been a dedicated member of Sweet Adelines International since January 1975. Over the past four decades, Diane has established herself as an influential leader in the world of a cappella and barbershop harmony, leading choruses to remarkable success.
Diane's musical leadership journey began with her role as Master Director of The Fox Valley Chorus (formerly Region 22, now Region 6) from 1975 to 1985. She then directed The Riverport Chorus (formerly Region 22, now Region 3) from 1985 to 1999, guiding them to five Regional Championships and a Top Ten finish in Salt Lake City in 1997. Since 1999, Diane has been the proud director of the Buffalo Gateway Show Chorus (formerly Region 16, now Region 17). Under her direction, the chorus has earned three Region 16 Championships, three Wildcard invitations, and placed in the Top Ten at International Competitions in Hawaii (2008), Seattle (2010), Denver (2012), Baltimore (2014), Las Vegas (2016), and St. Louis (2018).
Beyond her Sweet Adelines leadership, Diane also served as the front-line director of The East Aurora Friends of Harmony BHS Chorus from 1999 to 2006.
Diane’s contributions to Sweet Adelines go beyond directing. She has held prestigious positions, including serving four years as Secretary of the International Board of Directors and as a member of the Education Direction Committee from 2014 to 2016. She was also the Moderator of the International Faculty Coordinators, chaired the 2003 International Educational Symposium, and co-chaired the 2009 Side By Side seminar in Detroit. Diane's expertise and passion for coaching, judging, and teaching have taken her across the globe, working with champion choruses and quartets in the U.S., Canada, England, New Zealand, Sweden, and Australia.
Diane's educational background as a music major from the University of Dubuque, Iowa, and the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh, has been the foundation for her impressive career. She has also held various regional leadership roles, including Region 16’s Director Coordinator and Membership & Marketing Coordinator. In 2005, she was honored with Region 16’s "Excellence in Leadership Award." Additionally, Diane is a familiar face as an anchor webcaster for the International competition's Chorus Semi-Finals and Finals.
With her busy schedule full of coaching and teaching assignments worldwide, Diane's passion for music and dedication to excellence are truly inspiring. Her enthusiasm, humor, and boundless energy are a source of joy for everyone in the Buffalo Gateway Show Chorus. We are incredibly proud to have her as our director and friend!
