This week I talked with singer/songwriter Ann Hampton Callaway about her performance with the Boston Gay Men’s Chorus (BGMC) on March 16th at Jordan Hall in Boston, MA. The concert entitled "Melodies for a Movement" highlights the "Tyler’s Suite" that sheds light on the devastating impact of cyber-harassment & bullying that our LGBTQ youth continue to face. Tyler Clementi was the accomplished violinist who took his life in 2010 after being cyber-bullied by his Rutgers roommate for being gay. The "Tyler’s Suite" was created under the leadership of Composer Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin) & explores the voices & experiences of Tyler & his family through the music of 11 of today’s top composers including Ann Hampton Callaway. This powerful performance will feature a suite in 9 movements for chorus with a solo violin performance dedicated to the memory of Tyler Clementi. "Melodies for a Movement" also features a cabaret set by Callaway one of America's most gifted & prolific artists. Through the stirring composition of the "Tyler’s Suite" & the mesmerizing performance by Callaway this fabulous concert event will evoke empathy, foster understanding & promote acceptance. Especially in these difficult times with over 600 anti LGBTQ bills in states across the country, women's rights continue to be on the chopping block, antisemitism & hate crimes on the rise all as we head toward the 2024 presidential election. "Melodies for a Movement" honors Tyler Clementi's memory while igniting the flame of positive change to build a world where every individual is cherished for exactly who they are. I talked to Ann about what she hopes to accomplish with her music & her spin on our LGBTQ issues.
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