Giving Voice to Social Issues

Two choral works will serve as a catalyst for this discussion about the unique potential of choral music to help us explore deeply important – and difficult – issues. Craig Hella Johnson will reflect on his oratorio Considering Matthew Shepard, a musical response to the tragic death of a young gay man who has become a symbol for hope and empowerment. Eugene Rodgers will speak about Seven Last Words of the Unarmed, Joel Thompson’s setting of the last words of unarmed black men before they were shot or killed by the police which was premiered by the University of Michigan Men’s Glee Club. Together they will explore the creative process, collaborations, breaking boundaries, and the meaning these works have for performers and audiences alike.