No justice, no peace. These words have historically been attached to protests against racism and other politically charged violence around the world. In the production of “Justice & Peace,” The Washington Chorus seeks to amplify and honor the message of these protests.

For the concert, The Washington Chorus’ Artistic Director Eugene Rogers has curated three significant pieces to incite thought and conversation around how we as individuals and a society can work together to achieve equality, justice, and peace both in our local communities but also globally.

The concert will give you a sense of the turbulence humanity experienced across history, with epic highs and solemn lows to remind us that our work is not yet done.

The Washington Chorus’ Artistic Director Eugene Rogers’ directs a choir comprised of TWC, Howard, and National Philharmonic Choristers. “A Knee on the Neck” by Adolphus Hailstork at The Music Center at Strathmore.

Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “Dona Nobis Pacem,” which translates to ”grant us peace,” premiered in 1936 in a world on the brink of war. 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. Unfortunately, the piece has yet to lose its relevance thanks to a modern world that remains at war.

Damien Geter’s “Symphony no. 1, Justice Symphony” revives anthems from the Civil Rights era. By evoking the sounds of the 50s and 60s, this three-movement symphony 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. History doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes.

Roshanne Etezady’s “Become the Sky” is 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 hopeful cap to the Justice & Peace concert, but also in recognition of Eugene Rogers’ first full chorus and orchestra concert as Artistic Director.

To create a world devoid of injustice, everyone must have an equal voice. TWC is committed to this goal by amplifying voices that have historically been ignored. Two of the three pieces selected by Artistic Director Eugene Rogers to be featured in “Justice & Peace” were composed by artists of color.

Damien Geter is a critically acclaimed bass-baritone, actor, and composer. His work hopes to drive social justice by combining various sounds from the black diaspora with classical music. Previously, TWC commissioned Geter to compose Cantata for a More Hopeful Tomorrow, a music film following the story of a black couple struggling with COVID-19 and their journey from despair to hope.

Roshanne Etezady is known for her ability to enrapture audiences with rhythmically intense music that can shift to subdued on a dime. A prolific composer and teacher, Etezady has been recognized by institutions around the world for her music that is “fresh, effusive, and immediately likable.” (Fanfare)

The Washington Chorus is delighted that “Justice & Peace” will offer opportunities for audience members to connect with our community partners, a highly curated group of organizations that work hard to create a more equitable society for everyone.

Featuring a dynamic orchestra, a glorious wall of sound from over 150 singers, and two star soloists in Karen Slack, soprano, and Kerry Wilkerson, baritone, “Justice & Peace” is sure to be a concert to remember.

Join us at the Kennedy Center on Sunday, June 12 at 5 pm for “Justice & Peace,” a live music experience. Tickets are on sale now here. ($15-$59)

“Justice & Peace” Seeks to Amplify the Voices of Artists of Color