Eric Shepard

Artistic Director & Conductor

During his conducting career, Eric Shepard has received numerous vocal and choral awards at local Des Moines and Regional choral competitions. He currently raises voices as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultant and Practitioner. “I work to find ways to ensure that every voice is heard, respected, and valued. I am excited to realize those goals through song with the Des Moines Gay Men’s Chorus!” he stated in regard to his new appointment.

Eric has led ensembles across the United States with appearances at the Cathedral of St. John and 9-11 Memorial site - NYC, The Encore Theatre - Branson, MO, American Gardens Theatre - Epcot Center, to name a few. He has toured internationally in Italy, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, England, Ireland, and France, where he led, performed or assisted Midwest choirs and/or opera troupes.

A Des Moines native, Eric received his Bachelor’s of Music degree in Education with an emphasis in musical theatre and conducting from The University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University, as well as two certificates from the University of South Florida - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace and Inclusive and Ethical Leadership.

Ben hagen

Accompanist & HarMANY Director

Ben Hagen is the Director of HarMANY and has been the principal chorus accompanist since the Fall of 2005. He received his Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from the University of Iowa. During his time in Iowa City, Ben was the accompanist for the University of Iowa Old Gold Singers and played piano in the show band for Princess Cruise Lines. He has served as the Musical Director for many local musical theater productions including Next to Normal, The Last Five Years, Evil Dead the Musical, Parade, [title of show] and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. Ben is participating in his fifth year as an adjudicator for the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards. He has accompanied many professional artists including Simon Estes, Nick Lane and Amy Wagar. Ben also works as Reporting Services Director at EMC Insurance Companies.