Jocelyn Hagen composes music that has been described as “simply magical” (Fanfare) and “dramatic and deeply moving” (Star Tribune, Minneapolis/St. Paul). Her commissions include Conspirare, The Minnesota Orchestra, Cantus, and The Houston Chamber Choir, among others. Her music has been performed widely, including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in New York City.

Ophelia is based on passages from Hamlet (Act IV, Scene 7) in which Queen Gertrude brings news of the death of Ophelia to her brother, Laertes. Laertes’ response to the news concludes the work: “Too much of water hast thou, poor Ophelia, / And therefore I forbid my tears.”

A conversation with Jocelyn Hagen:

SPM: What inspired you to write Ophelia?

JH: I’ve always been fascinated by the character of Ophelia and her tragic story. I was also very inspired by a painting I saw at the Louvre: The Young Martyr by Paul Delaroche.

SPM: What's the one thing you'd like an audience member to take away after hearing this piece?

JH: It’s a bittersweet story and a bittersweet work. I want the audience to hear her beauty and also her tragedy. My favorite moment is when the choir sings “her clothes spread wide.” I’m especially proud of my text painting at that moment.

SPM: What excites you about being included in this concert?

JH: The stories of women have been marginalized for centuries. Ophelia’s character is such an intriguing part of Hamlet, but not the star of the show. It is fitting in this concert to bring light to these characters, stories, and different viewpoints along with the female composers and writers who are being showcased on this concert.

Website: jocelynhagen.com