#United States #Maplewood #Sheila Silver #Songs of Resilience #PROTESTRA

World Refugee Day Concert: A Musical Call for Humanity

On June 20, the World Refugee Day will witness a remarkable presentation at St. George's Episcopal Church in Maplewood, New Jersey. Award-winning composer Sheila Silver's new song cycle, Songs of Resilience, is set to premiere during a benefit concert aimed at supporting immigrants facing detention at Delaney Hall, a federal facility in Newark. The concert will commence at 7 p.m. and promises an unforgettable evening of classical music, featuring an assembly of prominent singers and instrumentalists, including celebrated soprano, Melissa Citro.

This unique concert, co-produced by Sheila Silver, local resident Melissa Citro, and the innovative orchestral collective PROTESTRA, epitomizes the intersection of art and advocacy. All funds raised will facilitate the urgent work of organizations aiding immigrants, specifically First Friends of New Jersey and Cosecha, which provide vital support and resources to our immigrant communities.

Songs of Resilience is not just a musical piece; it is a profound artistic reflection on the trials faced by individuals navigating socio-political turmoil and personal hardship. Through a collection of songs penned by diverse authors, including journalist Nicholas Kristof and poet Lucile Lichtblau, the cycle captures poignant narratives ranging from the heart-wrenching experiences of a journalist witnessing famine in South Sudan to a poignant prayer for kindness and healing amidst chaos. Each song serves as a testament to human strength and resilience, amplifying the voices of those often drowned out in society.

The concert will spotlight exceptional performers, such as sopranos Melissa Citro and Teresa Castillo, accompanied by pianist Francesco Barfoed. The ambitious lineup also includes flutist Juan Carlos Narváez, who will unveil Borderless Dreams, another compelling work by composer Arturo Rodriguez. This piece intricately explores the psychology of immigration, navigating feelings of hope and trepidation.

St. George's Episcopal Church is conveniently located just two blocks from the Maplewood NJ Transit station, making it accessible for all who wish to join this vital event. Attendees can expect the concert to last approximately 80 minutes, followed by a reception that encourages community connection and dialogue about the pressing issues at hand.

For those unable to attend, contributions can still be made to support these important causes through the crowdfunding link provided by PROTESTRA. You can also visit Sheila Silver's website for more details on the songs and their authors.

This event is not just about music; it's a rallying point for empathy and active engagement in humanitarian issues affecting countless lives. Join us for a night where art meets advocacy, celebrating resilience and calling for action that transcends borders.

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About Sheila Silver

Sheila Silver is a venerable figure in the realm of contemporary composition, celebrated for her operas, chamber, and orchestral works. Her recent opera, A Thousand Splendid Suns, based on Khaled Hosseini's best-selling novel, debuted with the Seattle Opera and garnered significant accolades, including a shortlist nomination for Best World Premiere at the International Opera Awards 2023. Silver’s work has earned her numerous prestigious awards and grants, and she currently resides in the Hudson Valley, New York, while serving as professor emeritus at Stony Brook University.

About Melissa Citro

Melissa Citro, a distinguished soprano, is acclaimed for her portrayals of operatic heroines in works by celebrated composers such as Puccini and Wagner. Her prestigious career includes performances with leading opera companies and symphonies across the United States, complemented by accolades from the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions and the George London Award. A Maplewood resident, Citro’s contributions to the concert extend beyond performance, embodying a deep commitment to social causes.

About PROTESTRA

Founded on the principles of bridging classical music with social justice, PROTESTRA is an orchestra with a mission to champion equity and inclusion through artistic expression. Since its inception in 2017, PROTESTRA has hosted benefit concerts that directly contribute support to various advocacy groups, fostering community engagement with performance art. With a robust online presence and a commitment to diverse programming, the ensemble continues to redefine the landscape of classical music in service of greater societal good.