On November 26, The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra proudly presents Considering Matthew Shepard, a moving oratorio composed in response to a tragic true story that shocked and changed America in 1998. Composer Craig Hella Johnson weaves poetry, personal reflections, and historical texts to share a message of love triumphing over hate. The Elora Singers join this HPO for this performance led by conductor Mark Vuorinen.
In 1998, a gay named Wyoming University student Matthew Shepard was the victim of a homophobia-motivated beating that took his life. The trial sparked outrage across America, inspiring conversations around hate and becoming a catalyst for change. A pivotal event in LGBTQ+ rights, it ultimately led to a 2009 Hate Crimes Prevention Act that allows for federal prosecution of violent crimes motivated by a victim’s actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or disability.
“Music has the power to open hearts and create understanding in ways words alone cannot.” said HPO Executive Director Kim Varian. “Considering Matthew Shepard is an important piece of music that invites audiences to reflect deeply on compassion, acceptance and the ongoing struggle against intolerance. Joined by our friends, The Elora Singers, we are proud to share this profoundly moving work that reminds us how music can be a catalyst for empathy and social change.”
Led by Artistic Director Mark Vuorinen, 2023 Juno nominees, The Elora Singers are one of Canada’s premier chamber choirs. Known for their technical brilliance and exceptional artistry, they now lend their voices to this impassioned reflection on Shepard’s life and legacy.
Audience members have sung the praises of Craig Hella Johnson’s fusion oratorio, originally performed and recorded with the Conspirare Choir:
- “Considering Matthew Shepard offers up a unique chance brew of compassion, sorrow and even joy at a level of sophistication one rarely experiences.” – Gregory Hinton, Author and Filmmaker
- “Considering Matthew Shepard demonstrates music’s capacity to encompass, transform and transcend tragedy. Powerfully cathartic, it leads us from horror and grief to a higher understanding of the human condition, enabling us to endure.” – Patrick Rucker, The Washington Post
- “[A] powerful message of transformation and love. Brilliant!” – Vance Y George, Director Emeritus, San Francisco Symphony Chorus
Join us on November 26 for an unforgettable night of profound music that will stay with you forever.
Considering Matthew Shepard
November 26, 2025 at 7:30pm
The Studio Theatre at FirstOntario Concert Hall
1 Summers Lane, Hamilton
Tickets on sale at hpo.org
About The Elora Singers: Through regular concert series, recordings, and touring, The Elora Singers has established a reputation as one of the finest chamber choirs in Canada. The choir is renowned for its diverse styles, for its commitment to Canadian repertoire, and for its collaborations with other Canadian artists.
About the HPO: For 140 years, the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra has presented orchestral music and education programs with a mission to enrich the wellbeing of the greater Hamilton region. The HPO presents dynamic orchestral performances ranging from standard classical repertoire to popular music and world premieres by living composers. As one of Canada’s leading professional orchestras, the HPO has proudly contributed to the shaping of Hamilton’s cultural landscape.
HPO Media Contacts:
Megan Nourse
Marketing & Strategic Initiatives Manager
289-216-8273
mnourse@hpo.org