Sharon Farber

Hans Christian Andersen eloquently wrote: “When words fail, music speaks”. I am a true believer in this universal statement and honored to be a part of this historical and important concert, curated by a true visionary, Amy Andersson; A concert that calls for awareness and action for a better future to all.

I was always drawn to human stories; those that are more significant than any imaginary ones. I composed the first chorale piece in memory of slain reporter Daniel Pearl, as well as a cello concerto based on the life of Holocaust survivor Curt Lowens, as I believe that these stories must be told. Moreover, as an artist, I feel privileged to be able to communicate the teaching and moral of these narratives through the power of music. Thus, this concert is a natural continuation of my desire to bring to light the human experience, may it be within the film or concert music realms, letting the music speaks and accompany the images presented.

In “Hurryiah-Wind in My Hair (chapter 6) “, I was immersed in the struggle of the women of Iran for freedom. To feel the “Wind in my hair”- such a simple request and yet for some, this plea is being denied. Here, we take this freedom for granted, but that is not the case in many parts of the world. As a woman and a human being, I support these women’s quest to be free and dress as they please with no restrictions.

Musically, this was an opportunity for me to create a fusion of Middle Eastern rhythms, sounds and instrumentation- representing this struggle- with the rich sound of the orchestra, representing freedom, as well as one female voice asking for “Hurriyah- freedom.

Chapter 9- “Say Their Names”, effectuates the pain and suffering of the women of “Black Lives Matter”. I cannot imagine the heartache of losing a child- it is the most agonizing experience one can go through. Every life is precious and we should all be treated equally, no matter our color, gender, faith or culture- It is a basic human right.

The cello for me is as close as it gets to the human voice. In “Say Their Names”, it represents a single, yet universal, mother’s voice. She is me. She is you. She is all of us. The orchestra, on the other hand, portrays the fight and quest for change, so that the names of those who died will not be forgotten. From their sacrifice, a new, strong and determined voice of change would emerge, with a call for human dignity and respect for all life.

Learn more about Sharon Farber here: https://www.sharonfarber.com