Written By: Zara Khemlani

“We tell each other stories so that we will remember. Try and find the meaning in the living of our days.” – Craig Hella Johnson 

This January, the Rye Country Day School Upper School Concert Choir, in combination with faculty members, alumni, and parents, will be performing Considering Matthew Shepard for the 30th Annual Festival Chorus Concert. Led by Ms. Marcell, the Music Department Chair and Upper School music teacher, this program is a way for the Rye community to come together and remember the life of Matthew Shepard, an openly gay college student who attended the University of Wyoming. Shepard was kidnapped by two men from a bar, and as part of a hate crime, the men robbed Shepard, tied him to a fence, and left him to die on October 6th, 1998.

Craig Hella Johnson, the composer of this choral suite, emphasized the significance of remembering Matthew Shepard as a person. “You knew him as Matthew. To us he was Matt,” his mother, Judy, sings. Reflecting on her decision to feature this powerful piece, Ms. Marcell expressed the heart of this choice that resonates both musically and emotionally: “I think it’s important to learn about and remember Matthew Shepard’s story. We have to find ways to find common ground even in disagreement, and let love rise above all.” 

Highlighting the theme of community, Ms. Marcell shared, “My favorite moment is bringing the adult and student choir together when they discover they are a stronger choir because of the other!” Nicholas Arakas ‘25, one of the three Choir Presidents, has participated in Festival Chorus since his freshman year and shared that his favorite aspect of the program is “being able to spend time with other choir members and adults who are all just as passionate about the music as I am.” His fellow Choir President Rosie Isiyel ‘25 shared, “From the very first rehearsal, I was captivated by the magic of being surrounded by people from all walks of life, all united by a shared love of music. There’s something truly powerful about coming together with individuals who share the same enthusiasm.” She described the energy filling the room, calling it “inspiring” and adding, “The bonds we’ve built go beyond just the music; they reflect the deep sense of camaraderie that this program cultivates … I am filled with gratitude for the memories we’ve created and the music we’ve made.” Colin Lauri ‘25 has also participated in the program for the last four years and shared that he had a similar experience to Isiyel: “Every year, it’s a great experience to not only sing with such a great group of people but to meet these people. I’ve made lots of great friendships that make me look forward to the program every year.”

This program would not be possible without Ms. Marcell, and her impact is vividly expressed by Isiyel, who shares heartfelt gratitude for Ms. Marcell’s unwavering dedication and inspiring leadership: “I am especially grateful to Ms. Marcell, whose leadership has been instrumental in making this journey so enriching. Her ability to bring together a diverse group of people—ranging from those who have been immersed in music for years to those who are just beginning their musical journeys—is nothing short of remarkable.” Isiyel specifically referenced Ms. Marcell’s “dedication, guidance, and the empowering environment she created” as she reflected on Ms. Marcell’s impact on her musical journey.

The 30th Annual Festival Chorus Concert is more than simply a concert; it is the Rye community uniting to celebrate and honor the life of Matthew Shepard. Ms. Marcell’s enthusiastic leadership in conjunction with members of the Choir has led to this beautiful event, and she invites all to come watch. As Isiyel expressed, this program is a demonstration of hard work, compassion, community, and a shared love of music.

The concert will take place on Sunday, January 6, 2025 at 3:00 pm at the Rye Presbyterian Church.