For Ukraine: A Concert of Remembrance and Hope at Miller Symphony Hall August 20

For Ukraine: A Concert of Remembrance and Hope at Miller Symphony Hall on Sunday, August 20

Miller Symphony Hall announces a very special concert, coming up on Sunday, August 20.  For Ukraine: A Concert of Remembrance and Hope will unite everyone in support of Ukraine in her time of need and is presented by Miller Symphony Hall and The Allentown Band, just in time to celebrate Ukraine’s Independence Day (August 24).

Allentown Band Conductor Ronald Demkee notes:

“I am so looking forward to conducting this concert, which is special in so many ways.

Lots of wonderful music, some familiar, some new, and an internationally acclaimed composer conducting his own symphony that features a world class soloist and an outstanding youth chorus; this will surely result in a memorable and rewarding experience for all. Add to that the fact that net proceeds will support Ukrainian humanitarian efforts, which makes the event even more meaningful.”

The concert includes a video greeting from Ukrainian Ambassador Oksana Markarova, speaking on behalf of the people of her country. Allentown Symphony/Miller Symphony Hall Executive Director Al Jacobsen notes, “Ron and the Allentown Band approached us about co-presenting this concert and we were moved by the idea. As the atrocities in Ukraine continue, we will speak through music and raise funds to support those who need it most in this war.”

The performance features soloist Patricia Risley, mezzo-soprano, and a special appearance by The Bel Canto Youth Chorus of The Bach Choir of Bethlehem. Guest Conductor Johan de Meij will lead his Symphony # 4 Symphony of Songs, with movements that express both loss and hope. Opening the concert are two pieces by Ukrainian composer Mykola Lysenko, newly transcribed for band: Taras Bulba Overture and A Prayer for Ukraine. The chosen repertoire will also evoke feelings of optimism (A Plea for Ukraine by Ronald DeGranis), support and hope (A Tribute to Ukraine by Lawrence Kursar), introspection and resilience (Symphony No. 3, 6th Movement by Gustav Mahler), hope and victory (Symphony No. 5, 4th Movement by Ludwig van Beethoven) and the passion and spirit found in the Ukrainian National Anthem.

All net proceeds from the concert will go directly toward helping the people of Ukraine who continue to face enormous challenges and hardships.  As always, the power of music to connect and inspire us will be shared by everyone who attends and supports this outreach to those in need.

For those wishing to make an extra donation to the effort, a donation through Ukraine’s official website is recommended: https://war.ukraine.ua/support-ukraine/

For Ukraine: A Concert of Remembrance and Hope

Sunday, August 20 at 3 pm
Miller Symphony Hall
23 N 6th Street, Allentown PA
610-432-6715
Tickets: MillerSymphonyHall.org  $15 – $45

Please note: The Allentown Symphony Orchestra will not appear during this performance.