Sheltering Voices
A musical initiative to empower women artists and composers, homeless women, educate the public on domestic abuse issues, and support local homeless shelters.
The program involved the creation of a choir for women experiencing homelessness and a commission by composer Stephanie Ann Boyd to write a piece for this new choir and the orchestra. The lyrics were written by poet and women’s rights advocate Jessica Lynn Suchon, whose creative work is about shedding the shame and stigma around discussing female-related trauma.
“Sheltering Voices” took place May 12th, 2018, featuring female American composers and soloists through the following musical program:
Prayer and Celebration - Augusta Read Thomas
Sonata for Viola & Orchestra – Rebecca Clarke (Orchestrated by Ruth Lomon)
Sheltering Voices – Stephanie Ann Boyd (World Premiere)
Symphony in E Minor – Amy Beach
This project offered a direct link to the performing arts and a chance for these women to learn about and experience their own creativity and growth; a unique therapeutic approach to healing and empowerment; and an opportunity to be involved in activism on sexual violence. As a result of this project, a permanent choral program for women experiencing homelessness and poverty in Boston was created. Learn more at www.womenschorus.org
