Harmony and Hope About | Riverview Chamber Players

HARMONY & HOPE

Due to the epidemic of gun violence in the U.S., lives continue to be lost to police brutality, street violence, school shootings, and domestic violence, while trauma and fear intensify. Since 2016, Riverview Chamber Players has responded to violence using music to address this epidemic.

Director Rebecca Strauss designed Harmony & Hope as an annual performance and community event to support families of homicide victims, remember the lives of those lost to violence, and to stand together against gun and street violence. Performances interweave classical chamber music, gospel music, and personal stories about the impact of violence.

By providing a bridge between communities and races, these moving events connect us to our common humanity, offer a respite from pain, and provide a renewed sense of gratitude and joy

for life.

It is for the families of Legacy Lives On, and so many others who have experienced unimaginable grief and loss, that Harmony & Hope continues in a variety of forms.

“On Monday, November 28, 2011, my son Marquis and I were spending time together, after which he left to visit his youngest son. I remember telling my baby ‘mommy loves you and I’ll see you tomorrow.’ My tomorrow never came. On Tuesday, November 29th, 2011 my doorbell rang and it was a detective coming to tell me that my son was killed. He was shot in the back of the head and found lying in the street. I experienced the most painful and empty feeling that I would never wish on anyone. I wanted this nightmare to end. I wanted to see and hold my son.”

—Clarissa Turner, Founder of Legacy Lives On

"Acknowledging a family's loss brings us a step closer to brotherhood and sisterhood."

— Julie Shearer

"I have never experienced such highs and lows in a performance because it was all so genuine. You could tell people left feeling uplifted and hopeful."

— Adrienne Robinson

"It was a moving, heartfelt and healing event. I found myself fluctuating between the deep feelings of loss and sadness and then bearing witness to heroic examples of resilience and growth from those most impacted by violence.... it was a true gift to all of us who had the privilege to be there."

— Allen Spivack

Building Community: Waltham resident’s concert series targets urban gun violence