Originally written for Choir, Vocal Soloists(Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass, Boy Soprano), and Organ, the Requiem tells a story of the world being destroyed seen through the eyes of a young soul. It is a requiem sung to all lost and destroyed innocence; to all that are lost by death, and to all who survived but must live bearing the scars from the destruction.
The work was commissioned by John and Patricia Pietrzyk as part of an ongoing fund-raising project for UNICEF(International Children’s Emergency Fund) to send support to children whose lives continue to be at significant risk affected by war around the world.
The world premiere of the Requiem took place on February 15, 2025 at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Sunnyvale CA(USA). The concert in which the work was performed included an instrumental prelude section featuring works inspired by children written by Ravel, Faure, Schumann, and Schubert, as well as a poem written for the event and recited by California poet Veronica Kornberg.
With the combined efforts of the Bay Area’s vocal and choral music scene, the Requiem; its rehearsals and performance were directed by the composer. At the turn of the final week of rehearsals, crucial issues in relation to logistical and technical aspects of the work had been brought up. To solve this, the composer made a change in the score by rewriting the organ part to be played on the piano. The premier performance was conducted by the composer as he played the piano part.
May all who listen to the Requiem be inspired artistically, and encouraged to join in donating support for the children in conflict zones.
The donations are accepted at all times. Please share the work(music and video) to the world, to inspire and encourage in donating.
