PAST CONCERTS

Tuesday, 3 March 2020, 10:00am

PERFORMANCE AT WORLD WILDLIFE DAY 2020

"Sustaining all Life on Earth"

United Nations Headquarters, Trusteeship Council Chamber

On Tuesday, 3 March 2020, the UN Chamber Music Society will perform during the celebration of World Wildlife Day 2020 at United Nations Headquarters.  The focus of this year's World Wildlife Day is “Sustaining all Life on Earth”, a theme that encompasses all wild animal and plant species as a component of biodiversity as well as the livelihoods of humans, especially those who live closest to nature.

Music Programme
In celebration of World Wildlife Day, the UN Chamber Music Society will perform a programme inspired by nature and wildlife.

 

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

Rohan Mundiya, Violin
Chris Wong, Flute
Lucija Stilinović, Flute
Sergio Muñoz, Viola
Drake Driscoll, Cello
Sarah Favinger, Bass

JOE HISAISHI (1950 - ) "Reprise" from Spirited Away [arr. by Sachiko Miyano for the UN Chamber Music Society]

CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) 'Flocks a Mile Wide'

Monday, 2 March 2020, 12:30 EST

PERFORMANCE AT THE "WE ARE ALL GENERATION EQUALITY: A RING THE BELL FOR GENDER EQUALITY EVENT"

Nasdaq, 4 Times Square

Presented by UN Women WE EMPOWER - G7 Programme, European Union, International Labour Organization and Nasdaq

On Monday, 2 March 2020 at 13:00 EST, at the Nasdaq in New York City’s Times Square, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council will perform during the “We are All Generation Equality: A Ring the Bell for Gender Equality” – hosted by UN Women WE EMPOWER - G7 Programme, European Union, International Labour Organization, and Nasdaq.  

In celebration of International Women's Day in March 2020, stock exchanges around the world will host a bell ringing ceremony to raise awareness of the pivotal role the private sector can play in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality and women's empowerment. In March 2019, a record 85 exchanges rang their bells for gender equality, an increase from 33 exchanges four years ago. 2020 is expected see increased engagement as it is a momentous year for gender equality and women's empowerment.

In New York, the Ring the Bell for Gender Equality is co-organized by Nasdaq and UN Women's WE EMPOWER - G7 programme team in partnership with the European Union and ILO.

As a Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) signatory, Nasdaq is active in its efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion in the workplace. 2020 marks the 10th anniversary of the Women's Empowerment Principles. To celebrate, Nasdaq and UN Women invite partners to share lessons learned and good practices in implementing the WEPs in the marketplace, workplace and community.  At the nexus of company and investor interaction, stock exchanges are uniquely positioned to influence capital markets to advance this agenda.

opening remarks
Ann Dennison, Senior Vice President and Chief Controller of Nasdaq
Dan Seymour, Director Strategic Partnerships of UN Women

Music Programme
In honour of women, UN Chamber Music Society will perform a programme composed by all female composers.
 

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

Amy Baskurt, Violin
Eva Ding, Flute
Lucija Stilinović, Flute
Rosemary Nelis, Viola
Drake Driscoll, Cello
Sarah Favinger, Bass
 

Friday, 21 February 2020, 4pm to 6pm

PERFORMANCE AT THE OBSERVANCE OF INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY
United Nations Headquarters, Conference Room 4

Presented by the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the United Nations

On Friday, 21 February 2020, between 4pm to 6pm, in CR-4 at United Nations Headquarters, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council will perform during the Observance of International Mother Language Day (IMLD).

The event will be hosted by the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh to the United Nations, in collaboration with the Permanent Missions of Australia, Cameroon, Mexico and Trinidad and Tobago to the United Nations; UN Secretariat; and UNESCO’s New York Office. 
 

The theme of this year’s IMLD edition is “Languages without borders”, which is devoted to promoting peaceful dialogue and social inclusion. It therefore serves to utilize the spirit of languages as the driver for attaining sustainable development and lasting peace.  Multilingualism, a core value of the UN, contributes to promoting, protecting and preserving diversity of languages and cultures globally and in the process, achieving the goals of the UN across its three pillars. All these are vital for realizing the 2030 Agenda. Therefore, IMLD and multilingualism resonate a distinct unity of purpose.

Discussion Segment

Welcome remarks by H.E. Ms. Rabab Fatima, Permanent Representative of Bangladesh

 Remarks by H.E. Mr. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, President of the General Assembly

Remarks by H.E. Mr. Michel Tommo Monthe, Permanent Representative of Cameroon

Remarks by H.E. Mr. Juan Ramón de la Fuente Ramirez, Permanent Representative of Mexico

Remarks by H.E. Ms. Pennelope Althea Beckles, Permanent Representative of Trinidad and Tobago

Remarks by H.E. Ms. Tegan Brink, Chargé d'affaires of Australia

Remarks by H.E. Ms. Melissa Fleming, Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications (on behalf of Secretary-General)

Remarks by Ms. Cecilia Elizalde, Director of the Documentation Division, DGACM (representing Under-Secretary-General, DGACM and UN Coordinator for Multilingualism)

Message of DG (UNESCO) to be delivered by Ms. Marie Paule Roudil, Director of Office and UNESCO Representative to the UN in New York

Message of Mayor Bill de Blasio to be read out by the MC

Music Programme

The music programme by the UN Chamber Music Society will feature the languages and repertoire of Bangla, Navajo, Creole, Sanskrit, and Swahili – through music, which is a universal language.

 

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

Jennifer Cha, Violin
Amane Miura, Violin
Abigail Elder, Viola
Thapelo Masita, Cello
Sarah Favinger, Bass
Eva Ding, Flute
Brianne Morgan-Silver, Mezzo-Soprano


BANGLA
GARRY SCHYMAN (1954 - ) "Praan"
[Lyrics adapted from the poem "Stream of Life" from Gitanjali by RABINDRANATH TAGORE (1861 - 1941)]

NAVAJO
NAVAJO MELODY  Diné Healing Song (arr. Elliot Lichtenberg)

CREOLE
CHRISTOPHER LENNERTZ (1972 - )  The Haiti Project: "Symphony of Hope"
(arr. Lucas Richman for the UN Chamber Music Society)

SANSKRIT
CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - )  Devipravaha - "Goddess River"  from The Drop That Contained the Sea
(arr. Gabriel Majou for the UN Chamber Music Society)

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

Friday, 14 February 2020, 7pm 

PERFORMANCE AT THE OPENING OF THE 25TH YOUTH ASSEMBLY
City University New York (CUNY), Hunter College Assembly Hall

Presented by the Friendship Ambassadors Foundation
 

On Friday, 14 February 2020 at 7pm, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council will perform at the Opening of the 25th Youth Assembly, presented by the Friendship Ambassadors Foundation.  Youth Assembly brings together 600 young leaders ages 16-32 from over 100 countries working for social good and the Sustainable Development Goals from the grassroots to the international level.

Opening Remarks

H.E. Mr. Jürgen Schulz
Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of Germany to the United Nations
 

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS)
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director & Piano

Hana Mundiya, Violin I

Rohan Mundiya, Violin II

Abigail Elder, Viola

Drake Driscoll, Cello

Sarah Favinger, Bass
Eva Ding, Flute
 

MUSIC PROGRAMME

CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (arr. for the UN Chamber Music Society)
JOE HISAISHI (1950 - ) "Reprise" from Spirited Away (arr. by Sachiko Miyano for the UN Chamber Music Society)

Tuesday, 11 February 2020, 1pm 
PERFORMANCE IN HONOR OF THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN AND GIRLS IN SCIENCE DAY
Google, New York

Presented by Google

On Tuesday, 11 February 2020 at 1pm to 2pm, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council will perform a concert in honor of the International Women and Girls in Science Day.  Science and gender equality are both vital for the achievement of the internationally agreed development goals, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Over the past 15 years, the global community has made a lot of effort in inspiring and engaging women and girls in science. Yet women and girls continue to be excluded from participating fully in science.

The music repertoire for the concert programmed will feature music repertoire composed by female composers – whose voices have frequently been silenced in throughout classical music history and concert halls – as well as world music composed by a Grammy-winning composer.

Remarks

Ms. Anna Fälth, Senior Programme Manager and Policy Advisor for Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) at UN Women

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS)
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director & Piano

Johnna Wu, Violin
Florrie Marshall, Viola
Drake Driscoll, Cello
James Quinlan, Bass
Eva Ding, Flute
 

MUSIC PROGRAMME music programme

GHIYA RUSHIDAT (1984 -) Izar
CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) "Dao Zai Fan Ye " from Calling All Dawns (arr. Gabriel Majou for the UN Chamber Music Society)
LILY BOULANGER (1893-1918)  Nocturne
CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (arr. for the UN Chamber Music Society)

Monday, 27 January 2020, 7:30pm 
MUSIC THERAPY CONCERT 
Carnegie Hall, Weill Recital Hall

Presented by the UN Chamber Music Society of the UNSRC - To benefit the Helen Sawaya Fund at Mount Sinai Health System     

The UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council is proud to present a concert in support of the Helen Sawaya Fund, a philanthropy program headquartered at Mount Sinai Health System, whose mission is to enhance the experience of cancer patients using complementary therapies which include music therapy.  Music, which symbolizes peace and hope, also holds the power to help in alleviating pain, easing side-effects, while reducing physical and emotional stress.

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

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

Hana Mundiya, Violin
Rohan Mundiya, Violin
Marien Chatard, Violin

Alex McLaughlin, Viola
Drake Driscoll, Cello
Kohei Yamaguchi, Bass
Tom Lowe, Baritone

Donna Reid, Mezzo-soprano
 

WITH MUSICIANS OF THE NEW YORK PHILHARMONIC

Patrick Jee, Cello
Cong Wu, Assistant Principal Viola

Dasol Jeong, Violin

Eileen Moon, Associate Principal Cello, NY Philharmonic
& Advisory Board Member, UN Chamber Music Society

Programme 

• GUSTAV MAHLER (1860 1911) Symphony No. 5 in C Sharp Minor, IV. Adagietto
• FRANZ SCHUBERT (1797 - 1828) String trio in B flat, D.581
• CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) Passou o Verao from The Drop That Contained the Sea (arr. by Gabriel Majou for the UN Chamber Music Society)
• JOHN WILLIAMS (1932 - ) "Theme" from Schindler's List
• JOE HISAISHI (1950 - ) "Reprise" from Spirited Away (arr. by Sachiko Miyano for the UN Chamber Music Society)
• JULES MASSENET (1842 - 1912) - "Méditation" from the opera Thaïs
• ANTONIN DVORAK (1841 - 1904) - Quartet in E-flat Major for violin, viola, cello & piano, Op.87, B.162: II. Lento
• VADIM PETROV (1932 - ) Krkonošská pohádka (arr. for the UN Chamber Music Society)
• ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER (1948 - ) "Memory" from Cats               

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Tickets: Carnegiehall.org | CarnegieCharge 212-247-7800
Box Office at 57^th and Seventh
Benefitting the Helen Sawaya Fund to provide music therapy to cancer patients.

https://www.carnegiehall.org/Calendar/2020/01/27/UN-Chamber-Music-Society-Music-Therapy-Concert-with-Musicians-from-The-New-Yor-0730PM

Saturday, 18 January 2020, 6pm to 7:15pm
CONCERT FOR AUSTRALIA

Sending solidarity and support to Australia and its people in the face of unprecedented bushfires, on Saturday 18 January 2020 from 6pm to 7:15pm, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS) will perform a concert tosupport the ongoing relief and recovery efforts.  The catastrophic bushfires have seen significant loss of life, land and livelihood in communities across the nation. All funds raised will be directed to the Australian Red Cross. 

OPENING REMARKS

H.E. The Hon. Mitch Fifield,
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Australia to the United Nations

Mr. Richard Blewitt, Permanent Observer and Head of Delegation of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to the United Nations
 

PERFORMANCE BY THE UN CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY
OF THE UNITED NATIONS STAFF RECREATION COUNCIL (UNCMS)
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director & Piano
David Yardley, Countertenor and Medieval Harp
Hana Mundiya, Violin
Rohan Mundiya, Violin
Naoko Nakajima, Violin
Abigail Elder, Viola
Aaron Stokes, Cello
 

MUSIC PROGRAMME

I. Fire
ANTONIO VIVALDI (1678-1741)  The Four Seasons The Four Seasons Violin Concerto No. 1 - "Spring" (La primavera), Op. 8, RV 269, 1st MVMT. Allegro (in E major)
MANUEL DE FALLA (1876 - 1946)  Danza ritual del fuego ("Ritual Fire Dance")
FRANZ SCHUBERT (1797 - 1828) Piano Trio No.2 in E Flat Major, Op.100, D.929: II. Andante Con Moto
 

II. Australia
ANONYMOUS - Bold Jack Donohue (Traditional 19th Century Australian folk song)
SAVAGE GARDEN (By Daniel Jones, Darren) "Truly Madly Deeply”
TYSON ILLINGWORTH (1987 - ) "Wish I Was - Little Voices" (arr. by Ghiya Rushidat for the UN Chamber Music Society) {World premiere of chamber ensemble arrangement}

III. Hope
JOHN DOWLAND (1563-1626)  "Come Away, Come Sweet Love"
JOHANNES BRAHMS (1833 - 1897)  Six Pieces for Piano, Op.188: 2. Intermezzo in A Major, Andante teneramente (arr. for Violin and Piano)
CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (arr. for the UN Chamber Music Society)

Wednesday, 18 December 2019, 8:00pm 
CONCERT FOR WORLD ARABIC LANGUAGE DAY

Carnegie Hall, Weill Recital Hall

Presented by Edge of Arabia   
 

The UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS) in association with Edge of Arabia is proud to hold a concert in celebration of World Arabic Language Day, on 18 December 2019.  One of the most widely spoken languages in the world, Arabic is a pillar of the cultural diversity of humanity. 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. Maged Abdelfattah Abdelaziz,
Permanent Observer for the League of Arab States 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
Florrie Marshall, Viola
Drake Driscoll, Cello

Sarah Favinger, Bass

Amir Farsi, Flute
Keeheon Nam, Clarinet
Mohamed Alsiadi, Oud
April Centrone, Arabic Percussion

David Yardley, Countertenor & Medieval Harp

Programme

Popular Arab Music

ABDULMAJEED ABDULLAH (1962 - ) "Rahib" ("Magnificent") (arr. Ghiya Rushidat)
KADIM AL SAHIR (1957 - ) Eid al ashak "Celebration of lovers"

Arabic music in musicals
DAVID YAZBEK (1961 - ) "Haj-Butrus" and "Soraya"
from THE BAND'S VISIT (10x Tony Award-winning musical)

Classical Arab Music & United Nations
ANONYMOUS (muwashshah, Andalusia (before 1492)) Lamma Bada Yatathanna
MICHAEL MCCARTY (VONGOVA) (1988 - )  Piano Concerto for the United Nations, III. Allegro  - Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society      

Arabic music in Hollywood
ALAN MENKEN (1949 - )  “Arabian Nights” and “A Whole New World” 
(From Alladin)

Arab female composers
LAYALE CHAKER (1990 -)  Mkhammas Suite, III: Ya Fajr
GHIYA RUSHIDAT (1984 -) Izar (World premiere)

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

Tickets: Carnegiehall.org | CarnegieCharge 212-247-7800
Box Office at 57^th and Seventh
 

https://www.carnegiehall.org/Calendar/2019/12/18/UN-Chamber-Music-Society-Concert-for-World-Arabic-Language-Day-With-Musicians-0800PM 

Sunday, 20 October 2019, 7:00pm 
CONCERT FOR THE BAHAMAS
All Saints Episcopal Church   

Opening Remarks:

Message from Mr. António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General
  to be delivered by Melissa Fleming, UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications
Message from Ms. Henriatta Fore, Executive Director of UNICEF
  to be delivered by David Matern
H.E. Ms. Sheila Carey,  Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Bahamas to the United Nations
H.E. Ms. A. Missouri Sherman-Peter, Ambassador and Permanent Observer for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to the United Nations

Sending solidarity and support to the Bahamas from New York, on Sunday, 20 October 2019 at 7pm, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS) will perform a concert to support the relief and recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Dorian.  All funds raised will be directed to UNICEF.  In September 2019, Hurricane Dorian hit the northern Bahamas, and the people still urgently need shelter, safe drinking water, food and medicine.  Tens of thousands have been affected. 

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society

of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS)
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director & Piano

Hana Mundiya, Violin
Won-Jae Chang, Viola
Drake Driscoll, Cello
Amir Farsi, Flute
Ye-Won Chang, Flute
Zachary Haas, Trombone
Brianne Morgan-Silver, Soprano (Guest)

PROGRAMME
The UNCMS Concert for the Bahamas will open with the world premiere of the chamber ensemble arrangement of “Dao Zai Fan Ye” from Calling All Dawns by 2x Grammy Award-winning composer Christopher Tin, arranged by Gabriel Majou. Following the opening, the repertoire of the classical and world music programme will be revolved around three themes: I. Mediation on the Cyclical Nature of the Universe; II. Peaceful Waters to Hurricane; and III. Hope.

I. Meditation on the Cyclical Nature of the Universe
CHRISTOPHER TIN  "Dao Zai Fan Ye " from Calling All Dawns  (arr. Gabriel Majou for the UN Chamber Music Society)
BENOIT JUTRAS  "Jeux d’eau » from Cirque du Soleil’s O (arr. by Seth Stachowski for the UN Chamber Music Society)
YUKO UEBAYASHI  Town Lights
 

II. Peaceful Waters to Hurricane
BACH  Goldberg Variations (arr. Federico Sarudiansky): Aria
CORELLI  Sonata in F Major, Op.4, No.77 (Prelude - Corrente - Sarabanda)
SCHUBERT  Piano Trio No.2 in E Flat Major, Op.100, D.929: II. Andante Con Moto

III. Hope
JOHN BARRY  "Thunderball" from James Bond 007: Thunderball
JOE HISAISHI  "Reprise" from Spirited Away (arr. Sachiko Miyano for the UN Chamber Music Society)
CHRISTOPHER TIN  "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (arr. for the UN Chamber Music Society)
 

Proceeds to benefit UNICEF

Tuesday, 8 October 2019, 7:30pm 
CONCERT FOR CLIMATE ACTION
Carnegie Hall, Weill Recital Hall

Presented by the Office of the UN Secretary-General's Climate Action Summit

Opening Message
Mr. Luis Alfonso de Alba, UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy for the 2019 Climate Change Summit

Presented by the UN Climate Action Summit Team

UN CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY
Concert for Climate Action

Tuesday, 8 October 2019, 8:00 pm
Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall
(Entrance located near 154 West 57^th Street)

The UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS) is proud to hold a concert in support of the United Nations Climate Action Summit Team and its efforts to implement the Paris Agreement and to increase ambition and climate action.  The concert follows the Climate Action Summit in late September 2019, convened by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, where world leaders, from government, finance, business, and civil society will be invited – one year before countries will have to enhance their national climate pledges under the Paris Agreement.  During the concert, a message from Luis Alfonso de Alba, Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Climate Change Summit 2019, will be delivered.  Founded in 2016, the UNCMS is dedicated to promoting the UN goals at large - through the universal language of music.

PERFORMANCE

UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director & Piano
Hana Mundiya, Violin
Rohan Mundiya, Violin
Naoko Nakajima, Violin

Alex McLaughlin, Viola
 Drake Driscoll, Cello
James Quinlan, Bass
Amir Farsi, Flute
David Yardley, Countertenor
 

MUSIC PROGRAMME

The repertoire of the concert will feature music composed by 2x Grammy Award-winning composer, Christopher Tin, “Passou o Verao from The Drop That Contained the Sea”.  The chamber ensemble arrangement of this composition will make its debut by the UN Chamber Music Society at this special concert for climate action.  During the concert at Carnegie Hall, classical music repertoire will also be performed, inspired along the themes of the elements of nature: WATER, WIND, AIR, FIRE, and EARTH.

WATER
CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 -) Passou o Verao from The Drop That Contained the Sea (arr. for the UN Chamber Music Society by Gabriel Majou)

CAMILLE SAINT-SAENS (1835 - 1921) The Carnival of the Animals, R. 125: XIII. The Swan (arr. by Karl Risland)
 

FIRE
MANUEL DE FALLA (1876 - 1946) Danza ritual del fuego ("Ritual Fire Dance")
ANTONIO VIVALDI (1678-1741) The Four Seasons Violin Concerto No. 2 - "SUMMER" (L'estate), Op. 8, RV 315, 3rd MVMT. Presto (in G minor)

AIR
JOHN DOWLAND (1563-1626) "Come Away, Come Sweet Love"
J.S. BACH (1685 - 1750) Air on G string

WIND
MAURICE RAVEL (1875 - 1937) - String Quartet in F - "Allegro moderato - très doux"
FREDERIC CHOPIN (1810 - 1849)   Étude Op. 25, No. 12 in C minor

EARTH
JOE HISAISHI (1950 - ) "Reprise" from Spirited Away [Arr. for the UN Chamber Music Society]
CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns [Arr. for the UN Chamber Music Society]
 

https://www.carnegiehall.org/Calendar/2019/10/08/UN-Chamber-Music-Society-Concert-for-Climate-Action-0800PM

Wednesday, 21 August 2019, 10:30am

International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism
United Nations Headquarters
Hosted by the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism

On Wednesday, 21 August at 10:30am, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council will perform during the second UN International Day for Remembrance of and Tribute to Victims of Terrorism.  The resolution of this International Day was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2017.

The event will be opened by H.E. Mr. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, in the presence of:
H.E. Mr. Vladimir Voronkov, USG of Office of Counter-Terrorism

H.E. Ms. Maria Luiza Ribeiro Viotti, Chef de Cabinet

H.E. Mrs. Adela Raz, Permanent Representative of Afghanistan

H.E. Mr. Agustín Santos Maraver, Permanent Representative of Spain

Ms. Maureen Basnicki, victim from Canada

Ms. Sarah Tikolo, victim from Kenya

Ms. Thelma Stober, victim from the United Kingdom

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, President & Piano
  Rohan Mundiya, Violin

  DAVID YARDLEY, Countertenor & Medieval Harp

Music Programme

  JULES MASSENET (1842 - 1912)  "Méditation" from the opera Thaïs

  BEETHOVEN - Sonata Op.27, No.2 in c-sharp-minor (“Moonlight’), I. Adagio sostenuto
  DAVID YARDLEY (1978 - ) Medieval Harp Meditation #1 

UN CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY
Concert to Honour the Legacy of the Notre-Dame Cathedral

Thursday, 9 May 2019, 7:30pm
All Saints Episcopal Church
(230 E 60th Street)
 

Sending solidarity and support to Paris from New York, on Thursday, 9 May @7:30pm, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNCMS) will perform a Concert to Honour the Legacy of the Notre-Dame Cathedral.  All proceeds will be directed to support the reconstruction efforts via UNESCO.

As the Notre-Dame school of composers played a very important role in the history of music, the concert programme will feature composers such as Pérotin and Léonin, who led the development of polyphonic music in the 12th and 13th centuries.  Furthermore, repertoire composed by the French classical music legends of the of the 19^th and 20^th centuries, such as Chopin, Fauré, Debussy – in addition to equally genius female and minority composers such as Lili Boulanger and Joseph Boulogne Chevalier de Saint-Georges – will also be celebrated.

OPENING MESSAGES
 

H.E. Ms. María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés,
President of the seventy-third session of the United Nations General Assembly
 

H.E. Mr. François Delattre, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of France
to be delivered by Mrs. Anne Gueguen, Deputy Permanent Representative of France
to the United Nations

Ms. Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO


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

Hana Mundiya, Violin
Rohan Mundiya, Violin
Marien Chatard, Violin
Bennett Mahler, Viola
Won-Jae Chang, Viola
Drake Driscoll, Cello
David Yardley, Countertenor
Sara Jayne Blackmore, Mezzo-soprano

 

MUSIC Programme
 

I. Early Medieval Period
PEROTIN (Notre Dame School of Polyphony) (c.1160 - 1230)  Sederunt Principes
ANON (Montpellier Codex) (c. 13th century)  On Parole - A Paris - Frese Nouvele

II. 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

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

IV. Romantic Period
GABRIEL FAURE  (1845 - 1924)  Pavane (arr. by Henri Büsser)
MAURICE RAVEL (1875 - 1937)  Pavane for a Dead Princess ("Pavane pour une infante défunte") (arr. by Steve Jones)
FREDERIC CHOPIN (1810 - 1849)   Ballade No. 1 in G minor, Op. 23

V. Early 20th century Modern Classical
CLAUDE DEBUSSY (1862 - 1918)  Claire de Lune (arr. by Tony Kime)
LILY BOULANGER (1893-1918)  Nocturne ( arr. by Michael Hankinson)

VI. Late 20th century Popular / Film Music
ALAN MENKEN (1949 - )  The Hunchback of Notre Dame ("Le Bossu de Notre Dame")
God Help the Outcasts
Someday

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

Tickets: FREE CONCERT | Donations welcome | All proceeds to be directed the reconstruction efforts via UNESCO | RSVP not required.  Doors open at 7pm.

Commemorative Event for the Victims of the Easter Sunday

Friday, 3 May 2019 at 10am
United Nations Headquarters, General Assembly Hall

From Christchurch to Colombo, the number of terror attacks continues to rise, threatening to tear apart our societies and posing a threat to international peace and security. The attacks on churches and hotels in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday 21^st of April have claimed the lives not only of many Sri Lankans, but also of nationals of many other countries.  This event presents an opportunity for the international community not only to extend condolences, but also renew its commitment to our joint efforts to combat violent extremism and terrorism and offer reflections on strengthening our cooperation and resolve to counter these evolving threats.

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

Hana Mundiya, Violin
Drake Driscoll, Cello
David Yardley, Countertenor
Mahalya Gogerly-Moragoda, Soprano

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL "Everything" (arr. Seth Stachowski)
CHARLES GOUNOD (1818 - 1893)  Ave Maria
GABRIEL FAURE (1845 - 1924) Pavane

TRADITIONAL SONG  Amazing Grace

 Artist: Susan Fierro @Katonah Yoga

Saturday, 6 April November 2019, at 7pm
Concert in support of the Homeless
Lincoln Center, Bruno Walter Auditorium (40 Lincoln Center Plaza: 111 Amsterdam Avenue)
Hosted by the NYC Department of Homeless Services.  

Tickets: www.2019unchamberfundraiser.org
 

The New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) is proud to present the UN CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY CONCERT FOR THE HOMELESS.  The event will be dedicated to people experiencing homelessness in the City of New York, and all funds will be directed to the DHS Homeless Trust Fund, whose mission is to prevent homelessness when possible; to provide temporary, emergency shelter when needed; and to help individuals and families transition rapidly into permanent housing.

OPENING REMARKS
Mr. Andrew Gilmour, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights
Representative of Bill de Blasio, Mayor of New York:
Martha Calhoun, General Counsel, City of New York

UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director & Piano
Kelly Hall-Tompkins, Guest Violin
Hana Mundiya, Solo Violin
Gregory Lewis, Violin
Rohan Mundiya, Violin
Marien Chatard, Violin
Florrie Marshall, Viola
 Meyanna Jiang, Cello
Craig Klonowski, Bass
David Yardley, Countertenor

FEATURING MUSIC FROM LES MISÉRABLES
Tom Lowe, from Les Misérables
Sarah Elizabeth Combs

Sara Jane Blackmore
 

Programme:

Classical Music Repertoire

VADIM PETROV (1932 - ) Jana Eyrova ("Jane Eyre")
JOSEPH BOLOGNE CHEVALIER DE SAINT-GEORGES (1745-1799) Quartet in g minor I. Allegro
GEORGE FRIDERIC HANDEL (1685 - 1759)  "Ombra Mai Fu" from the opera Serse
ANTONIO VIVALDI (1678-1741)  The Four Seasons Violin Concerto No. 4 - "WINTER" (L'inverno), Op. 8, RV 297, 2nd MVMT. Largo (in E♭ major)
ANTONIO VIVALDI (1678-1741)  The Four Seasons Violin Concerto No. 2 - "SUMMER" (L'estate), Op. 8, RV 315, 3rd MVMT. Presto (in G minor)
FRANZ SCHUBERT (1797 - 1828) Piano Trio No.2 in E Flat Major, Op.100, D.929: II. Andante Con Moto
JEFF SCOTT - "Für Meinen Vater" from the Forgotten Voices song cycle (produced by Music Kitchen, which brings classical music artists in concert to homeless shelters)

Broadway repertoire from Les Misérables
CLAUDE-MICHEL SCHÖNBERG (1944 - )
Stars
I Dreamed a Dream
Empty Chairs and Empty Tables
On My Own
A Heart Full of Love
(arr. by Craig Klonowski for the UN Chamber Music Society)

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

Benefitting the Department of Homeless Services Trust Fund.

More Information: DHSPartnerships@dhs.nyc.gov

Thursday, 4 April 2019, at 6pm
UN International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action 2019
& Launch of the Safe Ground Campaign: "Turning minefields into playing fields"
United Nations Headquarters
Hosted by the Permanent Missions of Norway and Republic of Poland to the United Nations and United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS)

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

Hana Mundiya, Violin
Florrie Marshall, Viola and Violin

Drake Driscoll, Cello
Craig Klonowski, Bass
 

MUSIC PROGRAMME

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL  "Everything" from PARAMOUR (Arranged by Seth Stachowski for the UN Chamber Music Society)

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

Iraq Interlude
EDVARD GRIEG (1843 - 1907)  Piano Concerto in a minor (arr. for solo piano)
Mamadou Diabaté  Griot classique (arr. by Florrie Marshall)
FREDERIC CHOPIN (1810 - 1849)  Waltz, Op. 70, No.1

LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN (1770 - 1827)  Symphony No.5 (opening)
GEORGE FRIDERIC HANDEL (1685 - 1759)  Zadok the Priest, HWV 258 (aka. "Champion Leagues Theme")

J.S. BACH (1685 - 1750)  Double Violin Concerto in D Minor, II. Largo, ma non tanto
J.S. BACH (1685 - 1750) Cello Suites: D minor prelude; C major sarabande; C major bourees 1&2; C major gigue; C minor sarabande (arr. for viola)

NICCOLO PAGANINI (1782 - 1840)  Paganini Caprice No. 9
J.S. BACH (1685 - 1750)  C Major Largo; A Minor Grave; Andante; Allegro

Tuesday, 15 January 2019, 7:30pm 
MUSIC THERAPY CONCERT - WITH MUSICIANS OF THE NEW YORK PHILHARMONIC
Carnegie Hall, Weill Recital Hall

Presented by the UN Chamber Music Society of the UNSRC - To benefit the Helen Sawaya Fund at Mount Sinai Health System                  
   

The UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council is proud to present a concert in support of the Helen Sawaya Fund, a philanthropy program headquartered at Mount Sinai Health System, whose mission is to enhance the experience of cancer patients using complementary therapies which include music therapy.  Music, which symbolizes peace and hope, also holds the power to help in alleviating pain, easing side-effects, while reducing physical and emotional stress.

OPENING MESSAGES
Mr. Andrew Gilmour, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights

& Maestro Jaap van Zweden of the NY Philharmonic, to be delivered by representatives

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

Tim Fain, Guest Violin
Hana Mundiya, Violin
Rohan Mundiya, Violin
Florrie Marshall, Viola
 Jenny Kwak, Cello
Craig Klonowski, Bass
David Yardley, Countertenor

WITH MUSICIANS OF THE NEW YORK PHILHARMONIC
Michelle Kim, Assistant Concertmaster

Qianqian Li, Principal, 2nd Violin Group

Cong Wu, Assistant Principal Viola

Patrick Jee, Cello

Nathan Vickery, Cello

Programme

• CHRISTOPHER TIN (1976 - ) "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)
• LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN (1770 - 1827)  String Trio Op.9 No.1 in G Major, I. Adagio - Allegro con brio
• VADIM PETROV (1932 - ) Nokturno in G, Op. 60
• BENOIT JUTRAS (1963 - ) "Jeux d’eau" from Cirque du Soleil’s O (Arranged by Seth Stachowski)
• TIM FAIN (1976 - ) / JACOB MARSHALL (1979 - ) A Life in the Day
• FRANZ SCHUBERT (1797 - 1828) Piano Trio in B-flat major, No.1, Op.99 D898, II. Andante un poco mosso
• GEORGE FRIDERIC HANDEL (1685 - 1759)  "Pena tiranna io sento"
• MICHAEL MCCARTY (VONGOVA) (1988 - )  Piano Concerto for the United Nations, I. Andante  - Arranged for chamber music ensemble [Composed in celebration of the 70^th anniversary of the United Nations]

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

Tickets: Carnegiehall.org | CarnegieCharge 212-247-7800 | 25% Discount Code: UNC30625
Box Office at 57^th and Seventh
Benefitting the Helen Sawaya Fund to provide music therapy to cancer patients.

Or for more information:  MountSinaiCancer@mountsinai.org or 1 844-MD-Cancer

https://www.carnegiehall.org/Calendar/2019/01/15/Music-Therapy-Concert-with-the-UN-Chamber-Music-Society-0730PM

 Artist: Susan Fierro @Katonah Yoga

4-5 December 2018, 10:00am

United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) Workshop on Understanding Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)

United Nations Headquarters
Hosted by the The Kingdom of The Netherlands & the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS)
 

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

4 December 2018 for Permanent Representatives / Deputy Permanent Representatives / Experts / Military and Police Advisers
Adrian Daurov, Cello
BRENDA VONGOVA, Piano
 

  Music Programme

  PABLO CASALS (1876 - 1973) - Song of the Birds

  BENOIT JUTRAS (1963 - ) @Cirque du Soleil Canada Inc. - "Jeux d’eau" from Cirque du Soleil’s O (Arranged by Seth Stachowski)
  LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN (1770 - 1827) - Sonata Op.27, No.2 in c-sharp-minor (“Moonlight’), I. Adagio sostenuto

  ARVO PART (1935 - ) Spiegel im Spiegel

5 December 2018 for United Nations Staff Members
Aaron Stokes, Cello
David Yardley, Medieval Harp
Bennett Mahler, Viola
Brenda Vongova, Piano

  Music Programme
  David Yardley (b. 1978) The Mask of Mystery

  Thomas Campion (1567-1620)  The Cypress Curtain of the Night

  Thomas Morley (1558-1602) In Nets of Golden Wyers

  ARVO PART (1935 - ) Spiegel im Spiegel

Saturday, 1 December 2018, 3:00pm 

Benefit Concert for Teach the World Foundation

DiMenna Center for the Performing Arts, Cary Hall
Hosted by Teach the World Foundation

On Saturday, 1 December @3:00pm at the DiMenna Performing Arts Center (Cary Hall), the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council will perform a Concert for Children in aid of Teach the World Foundation’s mission to alleviate illiteracy among refugees and children in developing countries.  A reception will follow the performance.

The Conductor’s Spellbook tells the magical story of Tony Stradivarius. During a field trip to the symphony, young Tony finds a powerful book of spells and uses it to control the orchestra.  Through an exciting and interactive concert experience, audiences are introduced to music, orchestral instruments, and even conducting! Over 50 beautiful multimedia illustrations accompany the performance.  The work is “through composed,” is narrated, and is suitable as a family concert for parents and children of all ages.  With over 40 performances in the last two years by major orchestras such as the Detroit Symphony and the Singapore Symphony, The Conductor’s Spellbook is quickly becoming the new standard in educational interactive works for young audiences.

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society

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

Jacomo Barios, Guest Conductor

  Gergana Haralampieva, Violin I

  Hany Rizkalla, Violin I

  Francesca Dardani, Violin I

  Yuko Sunda, Violin II

  Delany Stockli, Violin II

  Melisa Atoyan, Violin II

  Jenn Chang, Viola

  Amy Bateman, Viola

  Elise Frawley, Viola

  Amanda Gookin, Cello

  Gjilberta Lucaj, Cello

  James Quinlan, Bass

  Seo Hee Choi, Flute

  Erin Lensing, Oboe

  Noémi Sallai, Clarinet

  Allison Nicotera, Bassoon

  Cameron West, Horn

  Matthew Jaimes, Horn

  Eric Rizzo, Trumpet

  Ehren Valmé Trombone

  Aidan Zimmermann, Tuba

  Sam Seyong Um, Timpani

  Mitya Nilov, Percussion

  Andrea Belfiore, Percussion

  Jon Clancy, Percussion

  Mélanie Genin, Harp

  Brenda Vongova, Narrator & Piano

  Paul Dooley, Narrator

Programme

  PAUL DOOLEY  The Conductor's Spellbook 

  GEORGE BIZET (1838 - 1875)  Farandole (arranged by Sam Hyken)

All proceeds from the concert will be directed to Teach the World Foundation.

Thursday, 25 October 2018, 7:30pm

Foreign Policy Association's Centennial Gala

Metropolitan Museum of Art, Temple of Dendur (Sackler Wing)

Hosted by the Foreign Policy Association

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society

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

  JOHNNA WU, Violinist (Solo)
  GREGORY LEWIS, Violinist
  FLORRIE MARSHALL, Violist
  MEYANNA JIANG, Cellist
  CRAIG KLONOWSKI, Bassist
  BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist

Programme

  ANTONIO VIVALDI  The Four Seasons

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

Monday, 15 October 2018, 7:30pm 
Village Health Works Benefit Concert with the UN Chamber Music Society
Carnegie Hall, Weill Recital Hall

On the occasion of the UN International Day of Rural Women, Village Health Works (VHW) is proud to present a benefit concert with the UN Chamber Music Society.  Working in Burundi, East Africa, VHW's newest project in progress in the Kigutu Hospital & Women's Health Pavilion, a state-of-the-art, 150-bed teaching hospital designed to meet the growing needs of our region, particularly among women and children.

Opening Remarks

Founder & CEO of Village Health Works, Deogratias Niyizonkiza

Under-Secretary-General & Special Adviser on Africa, Ms. Bience Gawanas

UN Women Senior Adviser, Ms. Alison Rowe

Music performance, in the feminist spirit, by the
UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, President & Artistic Director
  aRIEL HOROWITZ, Violinist
  JOHNNA WU, Violinist
  YUKO SUNDA, Violinist
  Abigail Elder, Violist
  JENNY KWAK, Cellist
  CRAIG KLONOWSKI, Bassist
  DAVID YARDLEY, Countertenor
  Brenda Vongova, Pianist

Programme

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

  CATERINA ASSANDRA - “O quam suavis” (Arranged by David Yardley)
  VADIM PETROV - Jana Eyrová ("Jane Eyre")
  AMY BEACH - Invocation Op. 55
  ANDREAS CARLSSON - "Everything" from Cirque du Soleil's PARAMOUR (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)
  LILY BOULANGER – Nocturne
  FRANZ SCHUBERT - Piano Trio No.2 in E Flat Major, Op.100, D.929: II. Andante Con Moto
  JENNIFER HIGDON - Scenes From the Poet's Dreams
  ARIEL HOROWITZ – Overflowings
  MICHAEL MCCARTY (VONGOVA) - Piano Concerto for the United Nations, III. Allegro
Composed in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the United Nations (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)

https://www.carnegiehall.org/Calendar/2018/10/15/Village-Health-Works-Benefit-Concert-with-the-UN-Chamber-Music-Society-0730PM

Sunday, 19 August 2018, 7:00 pm

Benefit Concert for Yemen
All Saints Episcopal Church

OPENING MESSAGES
Permanent Mission of Yemen to the United Nations: H.E. Mr. Ahmed Awad Ahmed Binmubarak, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Yemen – to be delivered by Mrs. Intisar Nasser Mohammed Abdullah, Political Coordinator

UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA): Ms. Ursula Mueller, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator – to be delivered by Ms. Waffa Saeed, Deputy Director of Operations and Advocacy Division

On World Humanitarian Day, Sunday 19 August 2018, the UN Chamber Music Society will present a Benefit Concert for Yemen.  World Humanitarian Day is a time to recognize the brave humanitarian workers who face danger in their line of duty.  It is also an opportunity to support the people affected by humanitarian crises around the world.  Yemen is currently witnessing the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.  With more than 2 million people internally displaced, over 280,000 refugees, and 8.4 million people on the brink of famine - the people of Yemen urgently need our help. All proceeds from the benefit concert will be directed to Mercy Corps, to help support the most vulnerable people in Yemen.

PERFORMANCE

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

  Yuko Sunda, Violinist
  Florrie Marshall, Violist
  BENNETT MAHLER, Baroque Violinist
  Adrian Daurov, Cellist
  James Quinlan, Bassist
  BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist
  David Yardley, Medieval Harpist and Countertenor

Guest Artists

  Ahmed AlShaiba, Oudist

  Hadi Eldebek, Oudist

Programme

  CIRQUE DU SOLEIL  "Everything" from PARAMOUR (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)
  ELDEBEK  Migration
  HANDEL  Ombra Mai Fu
  FAURE  Pavane
  CASALS  Song of the Birds
  Dowland  If Floods of Tears
  ALSHAIBA  Dream for Yemen
  YARDLEY  White Iris on Thy Bier
  SCHUBERT  Piano Trio No.2 in E Flat Major, Op.100, D.929: II. Andante Con Moto
  SHEERAN, MCDAID, MAC, BRIGGS, BURRUSS and TAMEKA COTTLE  Shape of You

Friday, 17 August 2018, 10:30am

International Day of Remembrance of and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism
United Nations Headquarters
Hosted by the Permanent Representations of Afghanistan, Belgium, Iraq, Nigeria and the United States to the United Nations, and the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism and the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate

On Friday, 17 August at 10:30am, the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council will perform during the first UN International Day for Remembrance of and Tribute to Victims of Terrorism.  The resolution of this International Day was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2017.

The exhibit will be opened by H.E. Mr. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, in the presence of:
H.E. Mr. Mahmoud Saikal, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Afghanistan to the United Nations
H.E. Mr. Jeroen Cooreman, Deputy Permanent Representative of Belgium to the United Nations
H.E. Mr. Mohammed Hussein Bahr Aluloom, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Iraq to the United Nations
H.E. Mr. Tijjani Muhammad Bande, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations
H.E. Mr. Jonathan Cohen, Deputy Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations
H.E. Mr. Vladimir Voronkov, Under-Secretary-General of the Office of Counter-Terrorism
Mr. Weixiong Chen, Deputy Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate
 

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, President & Artistic Director
Rohan Mundiya, Violinist

LUCAS STRATMANN, Violinist

Mauricio Rocha, Cellist

Brenda Vongova, Pianist
 

Music Programme

BACH  - Double Violin Concerto in D Minor, II. Largo, ma non tanto
FAURE – Pavane
BEETHOVEN - Sonata Op.27, No.2 in c-sharp-minor (“Moonlight’), I. Adagio sostenuto

Monday, 25 June 2018, 7pm 
Benefit Concert for Rohingya Refugees
Baruch Performing Arts Center

Message
From the Secretary-General of the United Nations, H.E. Mr. António Guterres
to be delivered by Mr. Andrew Gilmour, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights

Opening Remarks

H.E. Mr. Masud Bin Momen, Ambassador & Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations

Ms. Ninette Kelley, Director, UNHCR Office in New York

On Monday, 25 June at 7:00 pm, at the Baruch Performing Arts Center, the UNchambermusic will present the Benefit Concert for Rohingya Refugees.  UNHCR reports that more than 671,000 Rohingya children, women and men have been forced to flee to Bangladesh escaping violence in Myanmar since 25 August 2017.  As a result, Bangladesh has witnessed the world’s fastest growing refugee crisis.  The humanitarian situation could be greatly exacerbated by the fast-approaching monsoon season. All proceeds from today’s benefit concert will be directed to BRAC, one of the largest international development and humanitarian organizations based in Bangladesh.  

At the concert, a message from the UN Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, will be delivered by Mr. Andrew Gilmour, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights.  The Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations, H.E. Ambassador Masud Bin Momen, will be delivering opening remarks; followed by remarks by the Director of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in New York, Ms. Ninette Kelley.  The UN Chamber Music Society of the UNSRC is proud to collaborate with the Brooklyn Raga Massive, featuring the performance of Rabindranath Tagore’s "Amaro Porano Jaha Chae" ("All that my heart desires"), arranged by Craig Klonowski for the UN Chamber Music Society of the UNSRC.

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director
  Ariel Horowitz, Violinist
  Johnna Wu, Violinist
  Florrie Marshall, Violist
  Meyanna Jiang, Cellist
  Craig Klonowski, Bassist
  BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist
  David Yardley, Medieval Harpist and Countertenor

In collaboration with the Brooklyn Raga Massive

  Mir Naqibul Islam, Tabla player

Programme

  TIN  "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)

  HANDEL  "Ombra Mai Fu" from the opera Serse
  DVORAK  Symphony No.9 "New World Symphony": II. Largo (Arranged by Craig Klonowski for the UN Chamber Music Society)

  FAURE  Pavane

  DE SERMISY  “Tant Que Vivray”
  CIRQUE DU SOLEIL  "Everything" from PARAMOUR (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)
  YARDLEY  “The Mask of Mystery”
  SCHUBERT Piano Trio No.2 in E Flat Major, Op.100, D.929: II. Andante Con Moto
  TAGORE  "Amaro Porano Jaha Chae" ("All that my heart desires") (Arranged by Craig Klonowski for the UN Chamber Music Society)

Wednesday, 20 June 2018, 6pm 
UN Observance of World Refugee Day
& on the occasion of the ECOSOC Humanitarian Affairs Segment
United Nations Headquarters

Remarks

Ms. Ninette Kelley, Director, UNHCR Office in New York

Mr. Mark Lowcock, USG of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA)
H.E. Ambassador Matjila, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations
H.E. Ambassador Schulz, Deputy Permanent Representative of Germany to the United Nations

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

Tuesday, 19 June 2018, 3:30pm 
“The Plight and Rights of Children Born of War”
In commemoration of the official observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict
United Nations Headquarters, CR-2
Hosted by the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, and the Permanent Mission of Argentina
 

Remarks
Permanent Representative of Argentina to the United Nations, H.E. Ambassador Martín García Moritán;

Prime Minister of the United Kingdom’s Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict and Minister of State for the Commonwealth and the United Nations, Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon;

Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict and Under-Secretary-General, Ms. Pramila Patten;
Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict and Under-Secretary-General, Ms. Virginia Gamba;
 

The event’s panel discussion will include reflections on how the lessons of history can be applied to contemporary conflict and post-conflict societies, in which women and children released from armed and violent extremist groups struggle to reintegrate into their families and communities.  It will consider strategies such as enlisting religious and traditional leaders to help change harmful social norms and dispel the perception that these children and their mothers were complicit in the crimes committed by their captors.

The event will feature a short musical performance by the UN Chamber of Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council, which was founded to promote the values of the United Nations through the universal language of music. The voices of female composers, like the experiences of women in the history of armed conflict, and the countless children born of wartime rape, have been marginalized and silenced. For this reason, the repertoire for the commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict will include the work of female composers and is inspired by feminist themes.
 

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
  BRENDA VONGOVA, President & Pianist
  ARIEL HOROWITZ, Violinist

Music Programme

  BEACH  Invocation, Op.55
  VIARDOT  Romance for Violin
  BOULANGER  Nocturne

http://www.un.org/en/events/elimination-of-sexual-violence-in-conflict/index.shtml

Thursday, 31 May 2018, 7pm 
Opening of Alfons Mucha: Shaping The Czech Identity
Presented by the Czech Center New York
Bohemian National Hall
 

The UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council is proud to perform repertoire composed by Geraldine Mucha, the daughter-in-law of Alfons Mucha, during the opening of the exhibition “Alfons Mucha: Shaping the Czech Identity” - on Thursday, May 31^st at 7pm at the Czech Center New York’s Gallery in the Bohemian National Hall. 

The exhibition “Alfons Mucha: Shaping the Czech Identity” will celebrate the centenary of the establishment of Czechoslovakia in 1918 by exploring the artist’s contribution to the nation´s struggle for national identity and self-determination: Featuring the large-screen projection of his life´s work – Slav Epic, the first postage stamps, and banknotes for the newly independent Czechoslovak state.

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

HANA MUNDIYA, Violin I
YUKO SUNDA, Violin II
Florrie Marshall, Viola
Gjilberta Lucaj, Cello

MUSIC PROGRAMME
GERALDINE MUCHA (1917 - 2012) String Quartet No.1, Movement II

RSVP: http://new-york.czechcentres.cz/

Friday, 25 May 2018, 7pm 
H.E.A.R. CLASSICAL’S NEW YORK CITY LAUNCH CONCERT
History | Equality | Artistic Representation

Opening Remarks
UN WOMEN - Ms. Alison Rowe, Senior Advisor to the Executive Director of UN Women
UN Office of High Commissioner of Human Rights (OHCHR) – Ms. Kellie-Chandra Ognimba, Human Rights Officer

The UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council is proud to partner with H.E.A.R. Classical (History, Equality, and Artistic Representation), a new initiative founded by alumni from the Yale School of Music that promotes music by composers from diverse backgrounds, realigning the study of music with its nuanced history while expanding notions of what is considered conventional in classical music. 

This Friday, May 25th, you are invited to enjoy an exciting hour of music celebrating the accomplishments of female and minority composers including: William Grant Still, Ulysses Kay, Joseph Boulogne, Pauline Viardot, Lili Boulanger, Giaccobe Cervetto, Amy Beach, Juilius Eastman, and Yuko Uebayashi.

Performers
Adrian Daurov, cello

FELICE DOYNOV, flute

amir farsi, flute

JIYEON KIM, guitar

LUIS ORTIZ, piano

JONATHAN SALAMON, harpsichord

CORNELIA SOMMER, bassoon

LEO SUSSMAN, flute

BRENDA VONGOVA, piano
 

MUSIC PROGRAMME

William Grant Still - Bayou Home                                                
Ulysses Kay   Sonata - for Bassoon and Piano                                

Joseph Boulogne - Sonata in A Major for Violin and Piano     

Pauline Viardot - Romance                                                       
Lili Boulanger - Nocturne                                                      

Giaccobe Cervetto - Sonata in D major for flute and continuo, Op.3, No.2

Amy Beach - Invocation, Op.55                                        

Juilius Eastman - Touch Him When

Yuko Uebayashi - Town Light                                                    

Friday, 15 May 2018, 2pm 
“PEACE IS…COEXISTENCE”
in support of the Science Technology and Innovation (STI) Forum
Hosted by the Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations

and co-hosted by the Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations and the Missions of Mexico, Kenya, Austria, Finland, Bangladesh, Philippines, Canada, Costa Rica, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Poland, Brazil and Indonesia, in cooperation with the UN Department of Public Information
United Nations Headquarters, UN Visitors’ Lobby

Opening Remarks
Opening Remarks by H.E. Ambassador Koro Bessho, Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations

The Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations’ 7th “Peace Is…” event entitled, "Peace is... Coexistence," in support of the Science Technology and Innovation (STI) Forum – will feature the live crafting of the ZEN-An Suitcase Tea Room, accompanied by a music performance by the @UNchambermusic, in collaboration with Ms. Shoko Aono, Director of @ippodogallery , Mr. Kuniji Tsubaki, Japanese architect and creator of ZEN-An, Ms. Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director of the UN Chamber Music Society of the UNSRC along with singer Ms. Mai Fujisawa, and Ms. Rona Tison, Executive Vice President of Corporate Relations for @Itoen.  This event is co-hosted by Missions of Mexico, Kenya, Austria, Finland, Bangladesh, Philippines, Canada, Costa Rica, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Poland, Brazil and Indonesia, in cooperation with the UN Department of Public Information.

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director
  Mai Fujisawa, Singer
  HANA MUNDIYA, Violin I
  YUKO SUNDA, Violin II
  ANAT ALMANI, Viola
  ADRIAN DAUROV, Cello
  CRAIG KLONOWSKI, Bass
  BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist

Music Programme

  HISAISHI  "Reprise" from Spirited Away

  PRODUCER: CHRISTOPHER LENNERTZ  Symphony of Hope (Arranged by Lucas Richman for the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council)
  CANNON  Theme from Paper Lanterns

Sunday, 13 May 2018, 7pm 
The Heartbeat Project Benefit Concert

Providing music and math education for students on the Navajo Reservation

Opening Remarks
Remarks by the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights (OHCHR)
Mr. Antonio Cisneros, Chief of the Equality and Non-Discrimination Section

All proceeds will be directed to The Heartbeat Project, which provides music and math education for Navajo (Diné) students living on the Reservation.  The project strives to create an atmosphere of cultural exchange in which the impact of American colonialism on indigenous peoples is acknowledged, and Diné music, cultures and customs are respectfully engaged.  Our environments must no longer be filled with hateful rhetoric and action towards minority groups, including indigenous people. This is an incredibly vital time for us to connect with the Native American population and share an experience of cultural exchange through music - a language of peace and understanding.  At the concert, learn more about the Heartbeat Project, Diné culture, and indigenous rights – while enjoying a beautiful music programme which will feature a Navajo Melody – the Diné Healing Song, arranged by Elliot Lichtenberg.

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director
  Ariel Horowitz, Violinist
  Gregory Lewis, Violinist
  Manami Mizumoto, Violinist
  Jenn Chang, Violist
  Adrian Daurov, Cellist
  Sebastian Zinca, Bassist
  BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist
  David Yardley, Medieval Harpist and Countertenor

Programme

  VIVALDI  The Four Seasons Violin Concerto
      "Spring" (La primavera), Op. 8, RV 269, 1st MVMT. Allegro (in E major)

      "Autumn" (L'autunno), Op. 8, RV 293, 1st MVMT. Allegro (in F major)

      "Winter" (L'inverno), Op. 8, RV 297, 2nd MVMT. Largo (in E♭ major)

      "Summer" (L'estate), Op. 8, RV 315, 3rd MVMT. Presto (in G minor)

  YARDLEY  Lay Le Frain (We redeth oft)
  CIRQUE DU SOLEIL  "Everything" from PARAMOUR (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)
  DE SERMISY  Tant Que Vivray
  TIN  "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)
  DE SERMISY  Au Joli Bois
  DVORKAK  Symphony No.9 "New World Symphony": II. Largo (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)
  Navajo Melody  Diné Healing Song (Arranged by Elliot Lichtenberg)

Cost: FREE. Donations welcome.  100% of all funds will be directed to The Heartbeat Project. 
For more information: http://facebook.com/theheartbeatproject2018

Saturday, 28 April 2018, 3pm 
HEAR THROUGH TIME

Presented by HEAR Classical from Yale School of Music
History | Equality | Artistic Representation
Yale University, Whitney Humanities Center

The goal of HEAR Classical is to realign the study of classical music with its diverse history and to promote, perform, and celebrate music by female and minority composers.  In the 21^st century, classical music composed by female and minority composers continues to be marginalized and excluded in academic and performance settings.  We hold a responsibility to change this tradition.  You are invited to enjoy an exciting hour of music at Yale University, at HEAR CLASSICAL’s launch concert.  * The UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council is proud to partner with HEAR Classical – founded by an extraordinary Yale musician, Felice Doynov.  * HEAR Classical is proud to partner with the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council.

Performance by Yale School of Music musicians
  Alexandra Simpson, viola

  Amir Farsi, flute

  Cornelia Sommer, bassoon

  Dhyani Heath, violin

  Felice Doynov, flute

  Jonathan Salamon, harpsichord

  Leo Sussman, flute

  Lucas Guedes, cello

  Luis Ortiz, piano

  Vyacheslav Gryaznov, piano

In partnership with the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
(Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director)

  Ariel Horowitz, violin

  Johnna Wu, violin

  Adrian Daurov, cello

  Brenda Vongova, piano

Programme
Yale School of Music composers introducing each composer at the concert:

  Joseph Boulogne: Eli Greenhoe

  William Grant Still/Ulysses Kay: Tanner Porter

  Yuko Uebayashi: Anteo Fabris

  Elisabeth de La Guerre: Eli Greenhoe

  G. Cervetto: Alishan Gezgin

  Beach/Boulanger/Viardot: Fjóla Evans
 

Cost: Free admission.

Saturday, 24 March 2018, 7pm 
Haiti Benefit Concert

"Empowering Haitian women to lift their families out of poverty"

Opening Remarks by:

H.E. Ms. Inga Rhonda King
 Chair of the Caucus of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Permanent Representatives
 to the United Nations

All proceeds will be directed to Fonkoze, Haiti’s leading microfinance institution, which provides financial and development services to empower Haitians – primarily rural women.  Through Fonkoze’s programs and services, there are currently over 200,000 Haitians who have a viable and sustainable way to lift their families out of poverty. (https://fonkoze.org/)

At the concert, the music programme will feature the world premiere of the chamber music arrangement of “Haiti Project: Symphony of Hope” specially arranged by Grammy winning composer/conductor Lucas Richman for the UN Chamber Music Society to be performed on this occasion.  The “Symphony of Hope” project was originally produced by Grammy winning composer, Christopher Lennertz, and is a collaboration by 25 of today’s leading Oscar, Tony, Grammy and Emmy winning composers to benefit Haiti. (http://www.haitisymphony.com/)

Performance by the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Artistic Director
  Dasol Jeong, Violinist
  Yuko Sunda, Violinist
  Anat Almani, Violist
  Gloria Kim, Cellist
  Craig Klonowski, Bassist
  BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist
  David Yardley, Medieval Harpist and Countertenor
  Guillermo Vaisman, Singer

Programme
  DE SERMISY  "Au joli bois"

  TIN  "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)

  DVORAK  Symphony No.9 "New World Symphony": II. Largo (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society by Craig Klonowski)

  FAURE  Pavane

  YARDLEY  “With words of ivory” (Lyrics: Clark Ashton Smith)

  DVORAK  Songs of Nature: Melodies steal into my heart

  CARLSSON  "Everything" from Cirque du Soleil's PARAMOUR (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society by Seth Stachowski)
  LENNERTZ (Producer)  The Haiti Project: Symphony of Hope" (Arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society by Lucas Richman)

* Concert is part of the UNSRC Club Aux Antilles’ Spring events for La Francophonie.

Photo credit: Georges Harry Rouzier / K2D

Wednesday, 21 February 2018, 5pm 
UN Observance of International Mother Language Day
"Linguistic diversity and multilingualism count for sustainable development."

United Nations Headquarters

Hosted by:

Permanent Mission of Bangladesh
Permanent Mission of Colombia

Permanent Mission of Fiji

Permanent Mission of Tangzania

In collaboration with
UNESCO Office in New York
Office of the Mayor of New York City
 

Performing Artists of the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
DAVID YARDLEY, Medieval Harpist and Countertenor
YUKO SUNDA, Violinist
GJILBERTA LUCAJ, Cellist

BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist

YARDLEY   Lay Le Frain
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL  "Everything" from Cirque du Soleil's PARAMOUR
FAURE  Pavane
DVORAK  Songs of Nature: "Melodies steal into my heart"

Wednesday, 31 January 2018, 11am 
Annual Holocaust Memorial Ceremony

"Holocaust remembrance and education: our shared responsibility."
General Assembly Hall, United Nations Headquarters

The ceremony will be hosted by Ms. Alison Smale, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Global

Communications.

Remarks by:

Mr. António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General

Mr. Miroslav Lajčák, President of the 72nd session of the General Assembly

Mrs. Eva Lavi, a Holocaust survivor

Performing Artists of the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist
JONNA WU, Violinist
ANAT ALMANI, Violinist
ADRIAN DAUROV, Cellist

WILLIAMS   Theme from Schindler's List
FAURE  Pavane
BLOCH  “Prayer” from the suite Jewish Life
WILLIAMS   “Remembrance” from Schindler's List

The theme of the Holocaust memorial ceremony will be “Holocaust Remembrance and Education: Our Shared Responsibility”. The theme highlights the universal dimension of the Holocaust and encourages education on this tragedy so that future generations will firmly reject all forms of racism, violence and anti-Semitism. The Holocaust was a defining point in history and its lessons have much to teach about the danger of extremism and the prevention of genocide today.

http://www.un.org/en/holocaustremembrance/2018/calendar2018.html

Monday, 11 December 2017
UN Human Rights Day
United Nations Headquarters
Hosted by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Remarks by:

Mr. António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General

Mr. Miroslav Lajčák, President of the 72nd session of the General Assembly

Mr. Andrew Gilmour, Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights

Performing Artists of the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist
DASOL JEONG, Violinist
LAURA MUNISTERI, Violinist
ANAT ALMANI, Violist
ADRIAN DAUROV, Cellist
DAVID YARDLEY, Countertenor and Medieval Harpist

TIN  "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)

WILLIAMS   Theme from Schindler's List

YARDLEY  “White Iris”

Friday, 8 December 2017, 11am
International Day of Victims of the Crime of Genocide
United Nations Headquarters, Trusteeship Council

Hosted by the UN Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect

Sunday, 3 December 2017, 7pm
Holiday Benefit Concert

Benefitting the fight against hunger
All Saints Episcopal Church

All donations will be directed to Food Bank For New York City.

Featuring classical chamber music repertoire, Broadway musical hits from Les Misérables, as well as special guest artists and Broadway musical stars.  At the concert, opening remarks will be delivered
by Ty McKeiver, Chief of Staff of the NYC Mayor’s Office for International Affairs – delivering remarks on behalf of Ms. Penny Abeywardena, New York City's Commissioner for International Relations. 
The concert will direct all donations to Food Bank For New York City, which distributes 62.5 million meals annually to New Yorkers in need.

Opening Remarks:
Mr. Ty McKeiver, Chief of Staff of the NYC Mayor’s Office for International Affairs
Delivering remarks on behalf of Ms. Penny Abeywardena, New York City's Commissioner for International Relations.

Performing Artists of the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
Brenda Vongova, Pianist
Hana Mundiya, Violinist
Laura Munisteri, Violinist
Anat Almani, Violist
Adrian Daurov, Cellist
Craig Klonowski, Bassist
David Yardley, Countertenor and Medieval Harpist

Special Guest Artists
Tom Lowe, Singer
Sarah Combs, Singer
Judah Gavra, Singer

HANDEL  "Pena tiranna io sento"
FAURE   Pavane
Løvland  "You raise me up"
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL  “Everything” from PARAMOUR (arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)
YARDLEY  “White Iris”
YARDLEY  “Man Be Glad in Halle and Bour”
TIN  "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society)
Les Misérables 
    Stars

      I Dreamed a Dream

    Empty Chairs and Empty Tables

    On My Own

    A Heart Full of Love

Cost: Free. Donations welcome.
All donations will be directed to Food Bank For New York City.

Contact:  Brigid Palcic at bpalcic@foodbanknyc.org

Designer: Ms. Karmen Kolombo

Monday, 19 June 2017, 6pm
World Refugee Day

United Nations Headquarters

Hosted by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR)

Special Guests:
Mr. António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General
Ms. Ninette Kelley, Director, UNHCR Office in New York
Mr. Ben Stiller, UNHCR Supporter
Mr. Ahmed Badr, Former Iraqi Refugee, Founder Narratio
Christopher Tin, Two-time Grammy Award-winning Composer

Performing Artists of  the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist
HANA MUNDIYA, Violinist
ROHAN MUNDIYA, Violinist
JENN CHANG, Violist
ADRIAN DAUROV, Cellist
CRAIG KLONOWSKI, Bassist
DAVID YARDLEY, Countertenor

Featuring the World Premiere Performance of the chamber music arrangement of the opening theme from Calling All Dawns composed by 2x Grammy Winning Composer CHRISTOPHER TIN -  specially arranged for the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council..

TIN "Baba Yetu" from Calling All Dawns (Chamber music enseble arrangement)

DVORAK  Symphony No.9 "New World Symphony": II. Largo (Arranged for chamber music ensemble by Craig Klonowski)

HANDEL  "Pena tiranna io sento"

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL  "Everything" from Cirque du Soleil's PARAMOUR

SCHÖNBERG  Stars (from Les Misérables)

SCHUBERT  Piano Trio No.2 in E Flat Major, Op.100, D.929: II. Andante Con Moto

FAURE  Pavane

DVORAK  Songs of Nature: Melodies steal into my heart 

Designer: Ms. Karmen Kolombo

Thursday, 4 May 2017, 7pm
New World Concert as part of the New York Philharmonic's New World Initiative

Bohemian National Hall, Czech Center

Hosted by the Permanent Mission of the Czech Republic to the United Nations, the Consulate General of the Czech Republic in New York, and the Czech Center New York.

Under the High Patronage of the Permanent Representative of the Czech Republich to the United Nations, Her Excellency Mrs. Maria Chatardová.

SPECIAL GUESTS
The Permanent Representative of the Czech Republich to the United Nations,
  H.E. Mrs. Maria Chatardová.  

Message of Maestro Alan Gilbert of the New York Philharmonic to be delivered by Ms. Barbara Haws, 
  the New York Philharmonic's Archivist / Historian and Director of the New World Initiative
 

Performing Artists of  the UN Chamber Music Society
of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council
BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist
JOHNNA WU, Violinist
Hana Mundiya, Violinist
Anat Malkin Almani, Violist
ADRIAN DAUROV, Cellist
Craig Klonowski, Bassist
DAVID YARDLEY, Countertenor

A. DVORAK  Piano Quartet in E-flat Major for violin, viola, cello & piano, Op.87, B.162: II. Lento
A. DVORAK  Songs of Nature: This Day
J. SUK  Piano Quartet in A minor, Op. 1: II Adagio
A. DVORAK  Symphony No.9 "New World Symphony": II. Largo (Arranged for chamber music ensemble by Craig Klonowski)
A. DVORAK  Songs of Nature: Melodies steal into my heart  
M. VONGOVA  Piano Concerto for the United Nations: III. Allegro (Arranged for chamber music ensemble)

Sunday, 29 January 2017, 7pm

Benefit Concert for Refugees

All Saints Episcopal Church

Message of the UN Secretary-General, H.E. Mr. António Guterres, to be delivered by Ms. Cristina Gallach, UN Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information.

Remarks by Ms. Ninette Kelley, Director, The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), New York Office.

In collaboration with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR).  
All funds will be directed to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR).

Performing Artists of the UN Chamber Music Society

BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist
ARIEL HOROWITZ, Violinist
ADRIAN DAUROV, Cellist
CRAIG KLONOWSKI, Bassist
DAVID YARDLEY, Medieval Harpist and Countertenor

HANDEL  "Pena tiranna io sento"

MOZART  Piano Trio in C.  K.548: II Andante Cantabile

FAURE  Pavane
ANON  "Li chastelain de Couci ama tant"
CHIAO  "Blanket of Stars"

SHOSTAKOVICH  Piano Trio no.2 in E minor, Op. 67: III. Largo
CASALS  Song of the Birds

DOWLAND  "If Flood of Tears"

CARLSSON  "Everything" from Cirque du Soleil's PARAMOUR

SCHUBERT  Piano Trio No.2 in E Flat Major, Op.100, D.929: II. Andante Con Moto

Photo credit © UNHCR/Sebastian Rich.

Jordan.  Syrian refugee family living in Amman.

Portrait of Aboud (6).  He lives with his mother Amal (41) in Amman with his siblings Bashar (15) and twins Leen and Layal (12).  Amal's husband was killed back in Syria, when a bomb hit the bus he was travelling in.  She came to Jordan with only two changes of clothes for each of her children.

Wednesday, 14 December 2016, 8:45am
UN Global Townhall Meeting with United Nations Staff
United Nations Headquarters, Economic and Social Council Chamber (ECOSOC)

Hosted by the UN Secretary-General, H.E. Mr. BAN Ki-moon

Friday, 9 December 2016, 1pm
UN Human Rights Day
Roosevelt House

Opening remarks by H.E. Jan Eliasson, Deputy Secretary-General.
Remarks by Mr. Andrew Gilmour, Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights.

Hosted by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Performing Artists of the UN Chamber Music Society

BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist
YUKO SUNDA, Violinist
ADRIAN DAUROV, Cellist
CRAIG KLONOWSKI, Bassist
DAVID YARDLEY, Medieval Harpist and Countertenor

HANDEL  "Pena tiranna io sento"
SHOSTAKOVICH  Piano Trio no.2 in E minor, Op. 67: III. Largo
FAURE  Pavane
CASALS  Song of the Birds

Friday, 9 December 2016, 11am
International Day of Victims of the Crime of Genocide
United Nations Headquarters, Trusteeship Council

Hosted by the UN Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect

Tuesday, 29 November 2016
Memorial to celebrate the life of Ambassador Joseph Verner Reed
United Nations Headquarters, Economic and Social Council Chamber (ECOSOC)

Remarks by the UN Secretary-General, H.E. Mr. BAN Ki-moon.

Artist: Ms. Megumu Tagami

Sunday, 20 November 2016, at 3pm
Concert to Benefit Families & Children through the Homeless Trust Fund
Lincoln Center, Bruno Walter Auditorium
40 Lincoln Center Plaza (Entrance on 65th Street and Amsterdam)

A concert to benefit the NYC Department of Homeless Services.  All funds will be directed to the Homeless Trust Fund.
Special Guests: City of New York: Mr. Steven Banks, Department of Social Services (DSS) Commissioner
Honorary Guest: H.E. Mr. Jan Eliasson, UN Deputy Secretary-General.
Remarks: Mr. Andrew Gilmour, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights.
Poem reading by: Humans of New York
Special thanks: Cirque du Soleil PARAMOUR

Performing Artists of the UN Chamber Music Society

BRENDA VONGOVA, Pianist
Hana Mundiya, Violinist
Yuko Sunda, Violinist
ANAT ALMANI, Violist
ADRIAN DAUROV, Cellist
Craig Klonowski, Bassist
David Yardley, Medieval Harpist and Countertenor

R. SCHUMANN Quartet in E-flat Major for violin, viola, cello & piano, Op.47, III. Andante cantabile
G. F. HANDEL "Pena tiranna io sento"
G. FAURE "Pavane"
ANON "Li chastelain de Couci ama tant”
A. CARLSSON "Everything" from Cirque du Soleil's PARAMOUR
M. VONGOVA Piano Concerto for the United Nations (Arranged for chamber music ensemble) (World Premiere – UNSRC Symphony Orchestra – in celebration of the 70^th anniversary of the United Nations.)

Tuesday, 25 October 2016, at 8:45am
United Nations Staff Day Concert
ECOSOC Chamber, United Nations Headquarters
Remarks delivered by H.E. Mr. BAN Ki-moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations,
H.E. Mr. Peter Thomson, President of the seventy-first session of the United Nations General Assembly, and H.E. Mr. Jan Eliasson, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Friday, 21 October 20 2016, at 7:30pm
Classical Music Recital at the Colombian Consulate
Consulate of Colombia, New York

Hosted by the Consul General of Colombia in New York, Ms. Maria Isabel Nieto.

Performing Artists of the UN Chamber Music Society

Brenda Vongova, Piano
David Yardley, Medieval Harp and Countertenor

Ginevra Cucinotta, Saxophonist
Jilliane Say-Maranan, Soprano

Nilko Andreas, Guitarist (Guest)

Christine Kim, Cellist (Guest)

Thursday, 13 October 2016, at 6:30pm
Pearls of Purpose Concert for surivors of trafficking, abuse and violence
Asia DC, Washington, DC

Hosted by FAIR Girls.

Artist: Ms. Megumu Tagami

Sunday, 11 September 2016, at 7pm

Concert of remembrance for the victims of 9/11 and acts of terrorism

All Saints Episcopal Church, New York
Under the High Patronage of the Ambassador of France to the United Nations.  Hosted by AFFIN.
Opening remarks delivered by Ms. Cristina Gallach, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information.
 

Performing Artists of the UN Chamber Music Society

Brenda Vongova, Piano

Anne-Chris Visser, Violin

Anne Richardson, Cello

Gjilberta Lucas, Cello

David Yardley, Medieval Harp and Countertenor
 

With special thanks to CIRQUE DU SOLEIL PARAMOUR, the music program will include repertoire from Cirque du Soleil shows, kindly and specifically re-orchestrasted for the UN Chamber Music Society.

From left to right: Madame Ban Soon-taek, Spouse of the United Nations Secretary-General; and
Ms. Brenda Vongova, President of the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council.

Thursday, 30 June 2016
Concert for the Reception in honour of the Advisory  Council and Volunteers
  of the Hospitality Committee for United Nations Delegations
The Residence of the United Nations Secretary-General
Hosted by Madame Ban Soon-taek, Spouse of the United Nations Secretary-General.

Monday, 9 May 2016
FAIR GIRLS “Beautiful Survivors Event: Put a stop to human trafficking."
New York City
Hosted by FAIR Girls and Nomi Network

Artist: Ms. Megumu Tagami

Tuesday, 26 April 2016
World Premiere Concert of the UN Chamber Music Society of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council: A Concert Dedicated to Refugees. 
Hosted by Theatre 167.

Opening remarks delivered by Ms. Ninette Kelley, New York Representative of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR).