“An Invigorating Musical Experience!” – Justice & Peace is A Hit
Justice & Peace, the fiery conclusion to The Washington Chorus’ 61st season, premiered on June 12th at The Kennedy Center Concert Hall and featured TWC Artistic Director Eugene Rogers making his dynamic full orchestral and choral debut.
“Eugene seemed to be breathing in sync with the chorus and orchestra. His energy was captivating”
- Judd K.
The energy in the room was palpable, yet it was hard to believe that this was the first time that Eugene performed with the full TWC Ensemble. Effortlessly, Eugene navigated the powerful program of Justice & Peace.
When asked about her experience, Thea Kano, the Artistic Director of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington had this to say:
“Justice and Peace was STUNNING!! The music and the message were powerful and inspiring, and the works programmed were exciting and evocative. The chorus sounded absolutely phenomenal, with a rich tone and crisp enunciation - what a delight to experience Dr. Eugene Rogers on the podium!”
Justice & Peace featured three vibrant pieces by a a wonderful group of composers, including two world-premiere pieces commissioned by The Washington Chorus. Read on to see what audience members had to say about this powerful concert.
“It was like a breath of fresh air. I almost felt like I was flying.”
- Andy M.
The program began with Roshanne Etezady’s “Become the Sky” as a celebration of new beginnings. Featuring a hearty sound of chorus and brass, this piece reminds us that hope springs eternal. The piece was commissioned by TWC as a joyous beginning to the Justice & Peace concert, but also in recognition of Eugene Rogers’ first full chorus and orchestra concert as Artistic Director.
“Effective, impactful, and constantly surprising”
- Matthew B.
Damien Geter’s “Justice Symphony” was performed second, and Geter expertly navigates the audience through this three-act symphony which recalls the hopes and struggles of Black Americans throughout history and serves as a reminder that problems highlighted by the Civil Rights era have not yet been solved.
“Painful, hopeful, and everything in between. I couldn’t stop crying.”
- Sarah S.
The program was rounded out with a performance of Ralph Vaughn Williams’ “Dona Nobis Pacem.” A veteran of the first World War, Vaughan Williams wrote this piece as a fervent cry for peace and a reminder that we always run the risk of sacrificing “righteousness and peace” to war.
“The Ukrainian anthem at the end was a spectacular and important addition to the program. Thank you for including it!”
- Nicholas B.
Justice & Peace concluded with a performance of Ukraine’s national anthem to serve as a reminder that the Justice & Peace is not just a reflection on the past, but has eyes on the present.
This concert was not just a suggestion, but a demand, that humanity do better. Each piece was uniquely chosen to provide the audience with epic highs and solemn lows to remind us that our work is not yet done.
Esteemed composer Rollo Dilworth, Chair of the Music Education Department at Temple University, was in attendance. He lauded the concert, saying:
“The Washington Chorus, under the vision and direction of Dr. Eugene Rogers, presented a captivating, informative, and relevant program of repertoire with poignant moments of introspection and inspiration. The timeliness of the selections—particularly Damien Jeter’s Justice and Peace Symphony—provided a compelling musical narrative for the audience. The messages in the music offered us courage and hope as we continue emerging from a pandemic, and as we navigate a world in search of true justice and perfect peace.”
Thank you to everyone who attended Justice & Peace, and we look forward to seeing you for the next concert coming this fall!
Keep an eye out for our season announcement on June 22, 2022 with tickets going on sale starting August 15, 2022.