Songs of Survival: Music of the Holocaust

Come along with us to experience beauty, perseverance, and even humor as San Francisco Choral Artists demonstrates the transcendent power of creativity in SONGS OF SURVIVAL. We remember those who were lost and those who survived. We honor those who pursue creativity and retain hope in the midst of despair.

Hope in the midst of war and despair? When asked, this is how Artistic Director Magen Solomon described what is sure to be one of our most unusual and heartfelt concerts:

“Tell them that this will not be an evening of mindless entertainment or feel-good platitudes, but it will be inspiring, moving and fascinating. The music is not all grim, though much of it is serious. There are familiar composers (Bernstein, Verdi, Schoenberg), folksongs and prayers, and four spectacular new works by the next generation of important composers—young artists who were willing to grapple with big questions of life and death and hope.

Equal with the music, perhaps will be the journey with our special guide, Nick Strimple. Known for his work on Holocaust music, preserving music and stories that were almost lost, Dr. Strimple will help us understand the role that music played for the Nazis, for those in the ghettos, boxcars and camps, and for survivors.”

The program includes rarely-heard music composed before deportation, songs performed in the Nazi concentration camps, music written by survivors, and new works which celebrate light in times of darkness.

Dr. Nick Strimple, internationally recognized scholar of music of the Holocaust, will collaborate. Dr. Strimple has presented Holocaust music programs across the USA and Europe, and lectured on the subject at Yale University, Oxford University, Wellesley College, and other distinguished institutions. We are honored to have his participation in our program.

Join us for a concert that will touch your heart and soul, with works from composers William Hilsley, Gideon Klein, Maia Aprahamian, Felix Mendelssohn, Viktor Ullmann, and others. Featuring the winning works of our 4th annual New Voices Competition for composers under age 30, and a new work by 2008 Composer in ResidenceRobin Estrada.