UPCOMING CONCERTS

The UN Chamber Music Society presents
 

Music and Film:

Rebuilding Better Through Coronavirus and Beyond

VIRTUAL GLOBAL LAUNCH: Tuesday, 21 July 2020

UN75 YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://youtu.be/jhW8RrT3q7U

Watch the FINAL DIALOGUe on
UNCMS YOUTUBE CHANNEL

https://youtu.be/3_ePuOVp4wU

‘Music and Film: Rebuilding Better Through Coronavirus and Beyond’, organized by the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS), in partnership with UN75 and the UN Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), will be moderated by Ernesto Ottone R, UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Culture, The UN Secretary-General’s Advisor on UN75 Fabrizio Hochschild, and World Health Organistion’s Art and Health Lead Christopher Bailey, will offer opening statements. The panel will feature Sean Flahaven, Chief Theatricals Executive of Concord, the fifth largest music company in the world & a Tony and Grammy winning producer, including of the 6x Platinum hit musical Hamilton; Emellie O’Brien, Founder & CEO of Earth Angel, a pioneering sustainability consultancy dedicated to greening film and television production; Joseph Bartning, Executive Director of the Salzburg Festival Society; and Rose H. Schwartz, partner at entertainment law firm Franklin, Weinrib, Rudell & Vassallo, P.C., who represents U.S. and international film and television producers, authors, opera companies, record labels, and creative talent.

This UN75/UNESCO ResiliArt panel discussion will explore the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic on the music and film industries, what can be done to protect creators and artists who are disproportionately affected by it, and how the music and film industries can be part of solutions to the global challenges facing our world.

#UN75 is the United Nations’ largest outreach initiative to engage the global public and civil society to address the most urgent challenges of our time. The views, concerns and ideas expressed in UN75 Moderated Dialogues will be presented to world leaders of all 193 UN Member States and UN leadership at the official commemoration of the UN’s 75th Anniversary in September 2020. After September 2020, groups around the world will discuss how best to take forward the priorities and proposals generated from these Dialogues. To learn more about UN75, visit https://www.un.org/en/un75

#ResiliArt is a UNESCO movement to raises awareness about the far-reaching ramification of COVID-19 across the cultural sectors; support artists during and following the crisis, including advocating for incorporating protecting the art and culture sectors and their workers in COVID-19 relief plans, and post-pandemic economic recovery plans; and thinking ahead to rebuild the creative sectors better post Covid-19, in alignment with UN priorities, including socio-economic and environmental sustainability. To learn more about ResiliArt, visit https://en.unesco.org/news/resiliart-artists-and-creativity-beyond-crisis

The #Culture2030Goal Coalition, composed of eight international cultural networks, recently released and signed a statement entitled 'Ensuring culture fulfills its potential in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic'. This statement was recently endorsed by the President of the UN General Assembly, His Excellency Mr. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande. To learn more about the Coalition, and to add your voice to this advocacy campaign by endorsing the statement, visit http://culture2030goal.net

Founded in 2016, the UN Chamber Music Society is dedicated to promoting the United Nations’ goals and values at large - through the universal language of music.

https://en.unesco.org/news/resiliart-artists-and-creativity-beyond-crisis

Moderator & Panelists
 

Ernesto Ottone R., UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture, previously served as Chile’s first Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage from 2015 to 2018. As Minister of Culture, he created a Department of First Peoples, a Migrants Unit and strengthened copyright laws and heritage protections. During this time, he also chaired the Regional Centre for the Promotion of Books in Latin America and the Caribbean (2016 – 2017).

Sean Patrick Flahaven, Chief Theatricals Executive of Concord, the fifth largest music company in the world;, producer on over 30 albums, 12 of which were nominated for Grammy Awards, including the Grammy-winning, 6x Platinum hit, Hamilton; Tony Award winner as a co-producer of the hit 2019 Best Musical, Hadestown

Emellie O’Brien, Founder & CEO of Earth Angel, a pioneering sustainability consultancy dedicated to greening film and television production. Emellie’s sustainability leadership on The Amazing Spider-Man 2 contributed to it being acclaimed as “the most eco-friendly blockbuster in Sony Pictures’ history." Recent clients include the Emmy and Golden Globe winning series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Spielberg’s Oscar nominated film The Post.

Joseph Bartning, Executive Director of the Salzburg Festival Society. Established in 1920, the Festival was one of the first global artistic peace projects, uniting nations with their shared appreciation for artistic excellence. The Society aims to promote peace through strategic partnerships and works to create an inclusive community of enthusiasts.

Rose H. Schwartz, partner at entertainment law firm Franklin, Weinrib, Rudell & Vassallo, P.C., Her clients include U.S. and international film and television producers, authors, opera companies, record labels, and creative talent.  Rose is an Adjunct Professor of Law at New York University School of Law. Member of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) East Coast; the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (New York Chapter); The Authors Guild (member-at-large); and New York Women in Film and Television.

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director

CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (arr. for the UN Chamber Music Society)
Hana Mundiya (Violin), Rohan Mundiya (Violin), Florrie Marshall (Viola), Drake Driscoll (Cello), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

SPECIAL THANKS

Mohammed Shaker

UN Department of Global Communications

UNESCO

WHO
 

Very Special Thanks
 

Rebecca Dixuan Bai, Video Editor
 

UN CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY
VIRTUAL CONCERT IN CELEBRATION OF
NELSON MANDELA

INTERNATIONAL DAY

 

Launch: Saturday, 18 July 2020
12pm Eastern Standard Time (New York)

Broadcast:
UNITED NATIONS
OFFICIAL UN YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U28AEf44XEI&feature=youtu.be

& UN WEB TV
http://webtv.un.org/news-features/watch/un-chamber-music-society-concert-to-mark-nelson-mandela-international-day/6172610980001

It was during those long and lonely years that my hunger for the freedom of my own people became a hunger for the freedom of all people, white and black. I knew as well as I knew anything that the oppressor must be liberated just as surely as the oppressed. A man who takes away another man's freedom is a prisoner of hatred, he is locked behind the bars of prejudice and narrow-mindedness. I am not truly free if I am taking away someone else's freedom, just as surely as I am not free when my freedom is taken from me. The oppressed and the oppressor alike are robbed of their humanity.’’

~Nelson Mandela  

On Saturday, 18 July 2020, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS) will present a concert in celebration of Nelson Mandela International Day.  The music repertoire of the concert will honour the African heritage, by featuring compositions by extraordinary black composers who changed the course of classical music history, including Joseph Bologne Chevalier de Saint-Georges (dubbed the ‘Black Mozart’) – one of the most accomplished classical music composers of African ancestry.  The concert will present the international premiere of arias from Madiba the African Opera, composed by the Sibusiso Njeza, and sung by opera singer Nonie Mtirara, niece of Nelson Mandela.  In addition, the world premiere of Vusi Nova’s “Viva Mandela”, arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society, will be featured.

In recognition of the former South African President’s contribution to the culture of peace and freedom, Nelson Mandela International Day recognizes his values and dedication to the service of humanity in the struggle for democracy internationally, and the promotion of a culture of peace throughout the world.

All musicians will perform chamber ensemble music from the safety of their homes, to help stem the spread of the coronavirus.  Founded in 2016, the UNCMS is dedicated to promoting the UN goals at large - through the universal language of music.

 

OPENING REMARKS
 

H.E. Mr. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande
President of the Seventy-fourth Session of the United Nations General Assembly
 

Melissa Fleming
UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications

FEATURING

Ndaba Mandela
Founder & Chairman of Mandela Institute for Humanity

Ilyasah Shabazz, Daughter of Malcolm X

Rohan Marley, Son of Bob Marley

International Premiere of Madiba the African Opera
with
Nonie Mtirara, Opera Singer, Niece of Nelson Mandela

UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director

 

MUSIC PROGRAMME

Onesimus “Viva Mandela” (arr. by RJ BENJAMIN for the UN Chamber Music Society - World Premiere) written by Vusi Nova
Thapelo Masita (Cello), Hana Mundiya (Violin), Florrie Marshall (Viola), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

Sibusiso Njeza (1982 - ) “Umyolelo” (“The Instruction”) aria from Madiba the African Opera (International Premiere)
Nosango Mtirara (Soprano), Hana Mundiya (Violin), Rohan Mundiya (Violin), Florrie Marshall (Viola), Thapelo Masita (Cello), Amir Farsi (Flute), Alec Manasse (Clarinet), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

JOSEPH BOLOGNE CHEVALIER DE SAINT-GEORGES (1745-1799) Quartet in g minor, I. Allegro
Hana Mundiya (Violin), Florrie Marshall (Viola), Thapelo Masita (Cello), Brenda Vongova (Piano)
 

SCOTT JOPLIN (1868 - 1917) Bethena: A Concert Waltz
David Strongin (Violin), Hana Mundiya (Violin), Rohan Mundiya (Violin), Florrie Marshall (Violin), Thapelo Masita (Cello), Sarah Favinger (Bass)
 

ENOCH SONTONGA (1873 - 1905) Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika (National Anthem of South Africa)
Michael O (Singer), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685 - 1750)   Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major, BWV 1007: I. Prélude
Drew Alexander Forde (Viola), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

Sibusiso Njeza (1982 - )  “Nyana Wam” (“My Son”) aria from Madiba the African Opera
(International Premiere)

Nosango Mtirara (Soprano), Hana Mundiya (Violin), Rohan Mundiya (Violin), Florrie Marshall (Viola), Thapelo Masita (Cello), Amir Farsi (Flute), Alec Manasse (Clarinet), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

 

SPECIAL THANKS
 

UN Department of Global Communications

Ndaba Mandela

Ilyasah Shabazz

Rohan Marley

VUSI NOVA
Lance Stehr
Onesimus
RJ Benjamin

Mohammed Shaker

VERY SPECIAL THANKS

Rebecca Dixuan Bai, Video Editor

Edward Bilous, Music Producer
Greg Kalember, Music Editor
Anran Qian, Music Editor
Virtua Music, Audio Production

UN CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY CONCERT
IN SUPPORT OF UNESCO’S RESILIART MOVEMENT FOR ARTISTS

 

Launch: Bastille Day
Tuesday, 14 July 2020, 12:00pm EST

Broadcast:
UNESCO OFFICIAL YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/unesco

Direct Link:

https://youtu.be/z0lJFC3FxDg

On Tuesday, 14 July 2020, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS) will present a virtual concert in support of UNESCO’s ResiliArt movement for artists in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. In partnership with UNESCO and the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF), the concert will take place on Bastille Day, the national day of France, and will celebrate the linguistic and cultural diversity of humanity, particularly through French language and music.

Launched in April 2020, following the outbreak of COVID-19, UNESCO’s ResiliArt movement is a concerted global effort to support artists, ensure access to culture for all and promote the diversity of cultural expressions.  The health crisis brought on by COVID-19 has plunged the global economy into a recession, which could cost the global economy nearly US $8.5 trillion over the next two years.  While billions of people around the world have turned to culture as a source of comfort and connection during this crisis, the impact of COVID-19 has not spared the culture sector. Cultural institutions including museums, theatres, cinemas and concert halls are losing millions in revenue each day, and 1 in 8 museums may never reopen. Artists, most of whom were already working part-time, on an informal basis or under precarious contracts prior to the pandemic, are struggling to make ends meet. Today, we are experiencing a cultural emergency.

ResiliArt sheds light on the current state of the cultural and creative industries amidst the crisis through global discussions with key industry professionals, as well as by capturing the experiences and voices of resilience of artists on social media.  Together with creative actors, ResiliArt raises awareness about the far-reaching ramifications of COVID-19 across the sector and aims at supporting artists during and following the crisis.  This includes incorporating protections for the culture sector and its professionals in COVID-19 relief plans, and post-pandemic economic recovery plans; improving the status of the artist by advocating for fairer regulations and the fair remuneration of artists; and thinking ahead to rebuild the creative sector better post COVID-19, in alignment with UN priorities, including socio-economic and environmental sustainability.  ResiliArt also promotes cultural diversity in the face of growing risks of cultural homogenization, due to, among other factors, the rise of online platforms.

During the inaugural debate on World Art Day (April 15), UNESCO called on all interested parties to join the ResiliArt Movement by organizing their own debates with the help of a public guide made accessible by UNESCO for this purpose. More than 100 ResiliArt debates have been organized to date in 54 countries around the world (and more than 30 additional debates are currently scheduled in five regions across the globe). Through ResiliArt, civil society has become an active actor in the decision-making process to enhance the culture sector’s resilience in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis.

The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented challenge requiring an unprecedented response. Now more than ever, we need to recognize, incorporate, and support cultural concerns in our response to the crisis and planning for the recovery, and support artists and culture professionals in overcoming, this emergency.

During the Bastille Day ResiliArt concert, musicians of the UN Chamber Music Society will perform music from the safety of their homes, to help stop the spread of the coronavirus.  Founded in 2016, the UNCMS is dedicated to promoting the goals of the UN through the universal language of music. 

 

OPENING MESSAGES

H.E. Mr. Nicolas de Rivière
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations

Ms. Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO
to be delivered by Ernesto Ottone R., UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture

UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director
 

MUSIC PROGRAMME

I. Baroque Period

CHARLES GOUNOD (1818 – 1893) Ave Maria (Originally published as “Méditation sur le Premier Prélude de Piano de S. Bach”)
Hana Mundiya (Violin), Drake Driscoll (Cello), Alec Manasse (Clarinet)


II. Classical Period

JOSEPH BOLOGNE CHEVALIER DE SAINT-GEORGES (1745-1799) Sonata for Violin and Piano in G minor, Op. 1b No. 3, Allegro
Naoko Nakajima (Violin), Brenda Vongova (Piano)


III. Romantic Period

GABRIEL FAURE (1845 – 1924)  Pavane
Alexander Warenberg (Cello)

FREDERIC CHOPIN (1810 – 1849)  Nocturne Op.9, No.2 in Eb
David Strongin (Violin), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

CAMILLE SAINT-SAËNS (1835 – 1921) Clarinet Sonata in E-Flat Major, Op.167, I. Allegretto
Alec Manasse (Clarinet), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

IV. Early 20^th century Modern Period

LILY BOULANGER (1893-1918) Nocturne
Eva Ding (Flute Solo), Hana Mundiya (Violin), Naoko Nakajima (Violin), Sergio Muñoz (Viola), Drake Driscoll (Cello)

V. Late 20^th century Popular

CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) “Rassemblons-Nous” from Calling All Dawns (arr. Gabriel Majou for the UN Chamber Music Society)
Michael  O (Tenor), Camille Brault (Mezzo-Soprano), Eva Ding (Flute), Gabriel Majou (Violin), Hana Mundiya (Violin), Drew Alexander Forde (Viola), Drake Driscoll (Cello), Sarah Favinger (Bass), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

******************************

If you wish to make a donation to support ResiliArt, please click here.  All donations are greatly appreciated.

SPECIAL THANKS

UN Department of Global Communications

Mohammed Shaker

Gabriel Majou
 

VERY SPECIAL THANKS

Jose Taveras, Video Editor

Jacob Sachs-Mishalanie, Audio Engineer

The UN Refugee Agency presents
UN CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY
VIRTUAL CONCERT IN CELEBRATION OF
WORLD REFUGEE DAY

VIRTUAL GLOBAL LAUNCH:

Saturday, 20 June 2020
12pm Eastern Standard Time (New York)
7pm Eastern European Summer Time (Mafraq, Jordan)

Watch the BROADCAST performance on:

UNHCR Global Youtube

https://youtu.be/LN6f6TOWRrs

or

UNHCR jordan facebook
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=587243142225740

On the occasion of World Refugee Day on 20 June 2020, the UN Chamber Music Society

of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS), in partnership with the UN Refugee

Agency (UNHCR), will hold a pre-recorded virtual concert, which will also be broadcasted in

Jordan, which is home to nearly 750,000 refugees.  Refugees and other displaced populations belong to the most marginalized and vulnerable members of society. They are particularly at risk during the time of the coronavirus disease outbreak, because they often have limited access to water, sanitation systems and health facilities.
 

The World Refugee Day Concert of the UN Chamber Music Society will raise awareness about the plight of the coronavirus pandemic on refugees. Over 80 per cent of the world’s refugees and nearly all internally displaced people are hosted in low- and middle-income countries, with already strained health care systems.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, these communities face heightened challenges, and their

vulnerabilities must be taken into consideration in readiness and response operations. Keeping the

most vulnerable safe means keeping everyone safe.

As the concert is hosted by the UN Refugee Agency in New York City, Part I of the concert will feature a classical and world music programme, symbolizes the city’s multicultural and global dimension – while providing solace to the city which has been severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic.  A musician of the New York Philharmonic and dancers of the American Ballet Theatre will be featured. In addition, the UN Chamber Music Society will perform music from the musical Hamilton.  Part II of the concert will feature music from Jordan and the Middle East, opening with music composed by the region’s music icon Kadim Al Sahir.  Part III of the concert will feature the world debut of a music collaboration “Hope for Refugees” between the UN Chamber Music Society and Afghan rapper and activist, Sonita Alizadeh.  Sonita grew up as a refugee in Iran.  She was sold into marriage twice as a child bride.  However, she escaped that fate, and today - uses rap music as a tool to empower girls and to bring change and equality to this world.  Co-produced by UNCMS founder Brenda Vongova,“Hope for Refugees” fuses the world of rap music with the classical music of the J.S. Bach’s Harpsichord Concerto No.1 in D Minor, with the mission of making classical music more accessible to the world.

Founded in 2016, the UN Chamber Music Society carries out the United Nations’ mission of peace, understanding and cooperation, through the universal language of music.  Music is a symbolizes love and peace, and holds the power to highlight the plight of the refugees.  All musicians will perform chamber ensemble music from the safety of their homes, to help stem the spread of the coronavirus.
 

PROGRAMME

Opening Messages

United Nations
H.E. Mr. António Guterres, UN Secretary-General
 

UN Refugee Agency

Filippo Grandi, UNHCR High Commissioner

UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications
Melissa Fleming

UN Chamber Music Society 

of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director

Part I:  Classical, New York and World Music

LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA (1980 -) "Wait for It" from the musical HAMILTON

Tom Lowe (Voice), Hana Mundiya (Violin), James Quinlan (Double Bass), Brenda Vongova (Piano), Tom Betsalel (Percussion)


WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART (1756 - 1791)  Piano Concerto No. 13 in C Major, Mvmt. I. Allegro (Excerpt)
Brenda Vongova (Piano), Hana Mundiya (Violin), Rohan Mundiya (Violin), Sindy Mohamed (Viola), Drake Driscoll (Cello)

JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685 - 1750)   Cello Suite No. 6 in D Major, Sarabande
Patrick Jee, Cello (Musician of the New York Philharmonic)

Sarabande | Stephanie Williams & Calvin Royal III, company members of American Ballet Theatre | ©Claudia Schreier, Choreographer | Music: J.S. Bach; Clare Bradford, Cello | Video: Gus Reed & Harry McFann
 

CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (arr. for the UN Chamber Music Society)

Hana Mundiya (Violin), Rohan Mundiya (Violin), Florrie Marshall (Viola), Drake Driscoll (Cello), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

Part II:  Jordan and Middle East

Interviews with aspiring young refugee musicians in the camp

KADIM AL SAHIR (1957 - ) Eid al ashak "Celebration of lovers"
Flute Solo (Amir), Hana Mundiya (Violin), Rohan Mundiya (Violin), Florrie Marshall (Viola), Drake Driscoll (Cello), Alec Manasse (Clarinet), Tom Betsalel (Percussion)

ANONYMOUS (muwashshah, Andalusia (before 1492)) Lamma Bada Yatathanna (arr. David Yardley)
David Yardley (Countertenor & Medieval Harp)

GHIYA RUSHIDAT (1984 -) Izar

Hana Mundiya (Violin), Rohan Mundiya (Violin), Florrie Marshall (Viola), Drake Driscoll (Cello), James Quinlan (Double Bass), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

Part III:  Hope for Refugees

Message from Refugee Artist
Sonita Alizadeh, Rapper and Activist

SONITA ALIZADEH (1996 - ) Hope for Refugees X JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685 - 1750) Harpsichord Concerto No.1 in D Minor, BWV 1052: I. Allegro

Sonita Alizadeh (Rapper), Brenda Vongova (Piano), Hana Mundiya (Violin), Rohan Mundiya (Violin), Florrie Marshall (Viola), Drake Driscoll (Cello)

SPECIAL THANKS

UN Department of Global Communications
 

George Maloian
Sean Patrick Flahaven

Florrie Marshall

Artwork of Poster: Abeer Obaido

Restore

Exploring the refugee self in art dialogues inspires new practices to participate in a community and new tools to articulate a social identity. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, the exploration and engagement of the refugee experience are more vital than ever – because they ensure equity and resilience, creating a diversified shared experience.  The painting is a part of a series inspired by Hannah Arendt’s work “We Refugees”.

VERY SPECIAL THANKS

Edward Bilous, Music Producer

Anran Qian, Music Editor

Imaginal Music, Audio Production

For list of all World Refugee Day 2020 events:

https://www.unhcr.org/refugeeday/wrd2020-events/

In partnership with the World Health Organization

UN CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY
PRESENTS

HEALING HANDS CONCERT

A virtual concert in celebration of Portuguese Language Day and Culture
& in observance of WHO’s World Hand Hygiene Day

 

In support of the
GLOBAL RESPONSE PLAN TO COVID-19

LAUNCH DATE:
Thursday, 7 May 2020

Watch the performance on:
WHO-GLOBAL CITIZEN SOLIDARITY SESSIONS

https://www.who.int/news-room/campaigns/connecting-the-world-to-combat-coronavirus/together-at-home

or DIRECT LINK TO CONCERT:
https://youtu.be/axJCvtFH8ek

MESSAGES

Joaquim de Almeida,
Portuguese-American Actor

FEATURING ARTISTS

Dani Alves, Percussion (World Debut with the UN Chamber Music Society)
Captain of São Paulo FC and the Brazilian National Soccer Team

Paulo Flores, Angolan Singer

Tiganá Santana, Brazilian Singer

Luís Represas, Portuguese Singer

UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director

The UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS) is proud to present the world debut of Brazil’s football superstar Dani Alves, as a percussionist with the UNCMS, in collaboration with the legendary Paolo Flores from Angola.  The concert celebrates World Hand Hygiene Day, which coincides with International Day of the Portuguese Language and Culture.  The performance features music from the three regions of the world where Portuguese is spoken: Latin America (Brazil), Africa (Angola) and Europe (Portugal).  Special thanks to Portuguese-American actor Joaquim de Almeida, for delivering opening remarks, the soulful Tiganá Santana from Brazil, Portuguese music icon Luís Represas, and all the musicians who contributed.

Launched in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), the concert draws attention to the simple practices that each of us can take throughout this pandemic to protect our friends and loved ones, and to protect the healing hands of our medical professionals.  The prevention and control of infection of the coronavirus, using hand hygiene, is critical to achieving this goal.  Musicians’ hands are also healing hands, because music heals.

With 240 million Portuguese language speakers worldwide, Portuguese is a pillar of the cultural diversity of humanity. Established by the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) - the community of nations where Portuguese if the official language, including Portugal, Brazil, Angola, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe and East Timor - Portuguese Language Day is dedicated to celebrating the common linguistic and cultural ties which unite these eight countries.  Portuguese is now recognized as a working language by European Union, the Mercosul, the African Union, the Organization of Ibero-American States, and the Organization of American States, among other world organizations.  As music is a universal language, the repertoire at this concert will symbolize the spiritual and philosophical connection between music and the Portuguese Language – while supporting WHO’s call to hand hygiene.

Founded in 2016, the UNCMS is dedicated to promoting the UN goals at large - through the universal language of music.  All musicians will perform chamber ensemble music from the safety of their homes, to help stem the spread of the coronavirus.

MUSIC PROGRAMME

Part I: AFRICA - Angola
PAULO FLORES (1972 - )  Kunanga do Amor
(arr. for the UN Chamber Music Society by Ghiya Rushidat)
Paulo Flores (Voice), Dani Alves (Percussion), David Strongin (Violin), James Quinlan (Bass), Brenda Vongova (Piano), Daniel Gurfinkel (Clarinet), Mohamed Gamal (Trombone)

Part II: LATIN AMERICA - Brazil
TIGANÁ SANTANA (1982 - ) Reverência
Tiganá Santana (Voice & Guitar), Amir Farsi (Flute), Hana Mundiya (Violin), Naoko Nakajima (Violin), James Quinlan (Bass)

Part III: WESTERN EUROPE - Portugal

LUÍS REPRESAS (1956 - ) FEITICEIRA | Music: Luís Represas | Lyrics: Francisco Viana | Arrangement: Carlos Garcia
Luís Represas (Voice & Guitar), Hana Mundiya (Violin), Naoko Nakajima (Violin), Abigail Elder (Viola), Bass (James Quinlan)

Part IV: World Music
CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) Passou o Verao from The Drop That Contained the Sea
(arr. by Gabriel Majou for the UN Chamber Music Society)
Amir Farsi (Flute), Gabriel Majou (Violin), Ori Wissner Levy (Violin), Marta Lambert (Viola), Anouchka Hack (Cello), James Quinlan (Bass), Brenda Vongova (Piano)

Support the Global Response Plan to COVID-19 by donating to
https://covid19responsefund.org/

SPECIAL THANKS

World Health Organization
 

Mohammed Shaker

Aguinaldo Baptista

Arturo De La Fuente

Monica Cosas

Artwork of Poster:
La Cathédrale | Auguste RODIN

S.1001 | Pierre | H. 64 cm ; L. 29,5 cm ; P. 31,8 cm

Paris, musée Rodin © musée Rodin - photo Christian Baraja

VERY SPECIAL THANKS

Philip Yusuff, Video Editor

Classical music is central to world sports history. It is played everywhere, from the opening of every FIFA World Cup, to Formula 1 Races, the Olympics, and Ice Skating among others. This concert celebrates this long-standing but little-known marriage. Music, art and sports will be crucial to maintaining our physical and mental health in the times ahead.
 

We will need all our strength as we consider and prepare for how we must rebuild the world better when the coronavirus pandemic ends.  The United Nations General Assembly adopted the International Day of Sport for Peace and Development in 2013 to recognize sports’ contributions to the advancement of human rights, and social and economic development.  Founded in 2016, the UNCMS is dedicated to promoting the UN goals at large - through the universal language of music.

All musicians will perform chamber ensemble music from the safety of their homes, to help stem the spread of the coronavirus.

LAUNCH DATE:
Thursday, 9 April 2020

Watch the performance on:
World health organization

https://www.who.int/news-room/campaigns/connecting-the-world-to-combat-coronavirus/together-at-home

MESSAGES

World Health Organization (WHO)
 Christopher Bailey, Arts and Health Lead at the World Health Organization

Dani Alves
Professional Athlete – Captain of São Paulo FC and the Brazilian National Soccer Team

David Alaba
Professional Athlete – FC Bayern Munich and Austrian National Soccer Team
 

UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director

MUSIC PROGRAMME

Part I: Classical Music & Sports
 

Football
GEORGE FRIDERIC HANDEL (1685 - 1759) Zadok the Priest (aka. “The Champions League Anthem”)
David Strongin, Violin
Ori Wissner Levy, Violin
Anouchka Hack, Cello
Brenda Vongova, Piano
 

Football
DMITRI SHOSTAKOVICH (1906 - 1975) Waltz No. 2
Sindy Mohamed, Viola
Arthur Hornig, Cello

Olympics Ice Skating Finals
MAURICE RAVEL (1875 - 1937) Boléro
Hana Mundiya, Violin
Rohan Mundiya, Violin

Formula 1

GEORGES BIZET (1838 - 1875)  Carmen – Overture
Ori Wissner Levy, Violin

FIFA World Cup

GIACOMO Puccini (1858 - 1924) Nessun Dorma
Amir Farsi, Flute
Hana Mundiya, Violin
Abigail Elder, Viola
Sarah Favinger, Bass

Part II: Classical Music & Peace
 

MANUEL DE FALLA (1876 - 1946)  NANA from "7 cançiones populares"

Kian Soltani, Cello
Petrit Çeku, Guitar

Group Dance in the 17th–18th centuries

JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685 - 1750)  Cello Suite No. 3 in C Major, Gigue
Assif Binness, Cello

Group Dance in the 17th–18th centuries
JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685 - 1750)  Partita No. 3, Gigue
Gabriel Majou, Violin

David Yardley (1978 - ) A Troubadour’s Lament for Toulouse, in the Plague of 1348
(Meravilhar nós devo pas las gens) [Words: Cavalier Lunel de Monteg (alias Peire de Lunel), 1326-1384]
David Yardley, Countertenor and Medieval Harp

Group Dance in the 17th–18th centuries
JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685 - 1750)  Cello Suite No. 2 in D minor, Sarabande
Drake Driscoll, Cello

JEAN-MARIE LECLAIR (1697 - 1764) Sonate Duo, No. 5, Movmt. 2

Sara Ferrández, Viola
Yamen Saadi, Violin

***********************

Support the Global Response Plan to COVID-19 by donating to
https://covid19responsefund.org/

SPECIAL THANKS

World Health Organization
 

Mohammed Shaker

David Strongin

Arturo De La Fuente
Jennifer Peros
Clare Ngai-Howard

Artwork of Poster:
Discus-thrower (The Townley Discobolus), Roman copy of a bronze original of the 5^th century B.C.E., attributed to Myron, from Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli, Italy © The Trustees of the British Museum
 

VERY SPECIAL THANKS

Lightbox

UN CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY
Performance to Provide Solace during the coronavirus Pandemic

 

LaunchED
Friday, 20 March 2020
 

Watch the performance on:
UNITED NATIONS

UN Web TV (Featured Videos): https://bit.ly/2IZy6RE

In support of the

who-Global citizen Solidarity sessions initiative

In solidarity and support to all those who are affected by the Coronavirus pandemic, and especially the most vulnerable among us – the elderly, the sick, those without reliable healthcare, and those on the edge of poverty – on Friday, 20 March 2020, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS), will launch a Webcast performance to pay tribute to all the outpourings of selflessness and love that have inspired the world in these uncertain times with.  All participating musicians will perform solo repertoire gems from their own homes, in encouragement of physical distancing to prevent the Coronavirus’ spread.  Founded in 2016, the UNCMS is dedicated to promoting the UN goals at large - through the universal language of music.

MESSAGES

H.E. Mr. António Guterres, UN Secretary-General

Melissa Fleming, UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization

UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director

MUSIC PROGRAMME
 

Eastern Europe

DMITRI SHOSTAKOVICH (1906 - 1975) Prelude
Arthur Hornig, Cello

Sindy Mohamed, Viola, Musician of the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Ensemble

Western Europe

JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685 - 1750) Sarabande from Partita No. 1 in B minor, BWV 1002
Hana Mundiya, Violin

NICCOLÒ PAGANINI (1782 - 1840) Variations
David Strongin, Violin, Musician of the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Ensemble

JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685 - 1750) Bach Sonata in A minor: Andante
Johnna Wu, Violin

JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685 - 1750) Partita No. 3 in E Major, Gavotte en Rondeau
Rohan Mundiya, Violin

GARIEL FAURE  (1845 - 1924)  Pavane
Amir Farsi, Flute

JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685 - 1750) Bach Invention No. 13 in A minor
Sara Ferrández, Viola
Yamen Saadi, Violin, Musician of the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra Ensemble

Americas

TRADITIONAL SONG  "Amazing Grace"
Florrie Marshall, Viola

Africa
TRADITIONAL HYMN "Seteng Sediba"
Thapelo Masita, Cello
 

Asia
JOE HISAISHI (1950 - ) "The Name Of Life" from Spirited Away
Mai Fujisawa, Singer, Daughter of Joe Hisaishi

Middle East
Lubana Al Quntar, Singer and Star of Umm Kulthum & The Golden Era musical - Singing "Inta Omri"
           MONA KHASH PRODUCTIONS
 

FRANÇOIS RABBATH (1931 - ) Poucha-Dass

Sarah Favinger, Bass

ANONYMOUS (muwashshah, Andalusia (before 1492)) Lamma Bada Yatathanna (arr. David Yardley)

David Yardley, Countertenor and Medieval Harp

Friday, 1 May 2020, 7:30pm

CONCERT FOR FRENCH LANGUAGE DAY

Bruno Walter Auditorium, Lincoln Center

On Friday, 1 May 2020, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS) in association with The Open Mind Project is proud to hold a concert in celebration of French Language Day (observed officially during the month of March – on March 20^th, which is also International Francophonie Day, celebrated on five continents.).  One of the most widely spoken languages in the world, French is a pillar of the cultural diversity of humanity. As music is a universal language, the repertoire at this concert will symbolize the spiritual and philosophical connection between music and the French language.

Language Days at the United Nations were introduced to celebrate multilingualism and cultural diversity and promote the equal use of the six official languages ​​across the Organization. These days are also an opportunity to sensitize the United Nations community to the history, culture and use of each of these languages.  Founded in 2016, the UNCMS is dedicated to promoting the UN goals at large - through the universal language of music. 


OPENING REMARKS
H.E. Mr. Nicolas de Riviere,
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations

Mrs. Jelena Pia Comella,
Adviser to the Permanent representation of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF) to the United Nations
 

UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director & Piano

Hana Mundiya, Violin
Naoko Nakajima, Violin
Gabriel Majou, Violin
Anne-Chris Visser, Violin
Ji Eun Park, Viola
Clara Abel, Cello

Sarah Favinger, Bass

Amir Farsi, Flute

Michael O, Singer

François-Thibaut Pencenat, Visual Artist

MUSIC PROGRAMME
 

I. Baroque Period
CHARLES GOUNOD (1818 - 1893) Ave Maria (Originally published as "Méditation sur le Premier Prélude de Piano de S. Bach")
FRANÇOIS COUPERIN (1668 - 1733) Le Parnasse, VII. Remerciment de Corelli

II. Classical Period
JOSEPH BOLOGNE CHEVALIER DE SAINT-GEORGES (1745-1799) Quartet in g minor, I. Allegro
JOSEPH BOLOGNE CHEVALIER DE SAINT-GEORGES (1745-1799) Sonata for Violin and Piano in G minor, Op. 1b No. 3, Allegro

III. Romantic Period
GABRIEL FAURE (1845 - 1924) Pavane (arr. by Henri Büsser)
GEORGES BIZET (1838 - 1875) Overture from Carmen (arr. by Louis Saar)
FREDERIC CHOPIN (1810 - 1849)   Ballade No. 1 in G minor, Op. 23

IV. Early 20th century Modern Period
CLAUDE DEBUSSY (1862 - 1918) Syrinx
LILY BOULANGER (1893-1918) Nocturne (arr. by Michael Hankinson)

V. Late 20th century Popular
ANGELE (1995 - ) Balance ton quoi
CHARLES AZNAVOUR (1924 - 2018) La Bohème
CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) “Rassemblons-Nous” from Calling All Dawns (arr. Gabriel Majou for the UN Chamber Music Society)
 

$25 recommended donation to support the UNCMS World Language Day Concerts.  Open seating.  RSVP not required.  Doors open at 7pm.