Vessels of Light
The U.S. premiere of Lera Auerbach’s Symphony No. 6, "Vessels of Light," at Carnegie Hall on April 19th, commemorates the heroic actions of Japanese diplomat Chiune Sugihara during the Holocaust.
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History
Chiune Sugihara, serving as vice-consul of Japan in Kaunas, Lithuania, defied orders during World War II by issuing transit visas to Jewish refugees, thereby saving countless lives. His courageous actions, recognized posthumously by Yad Vashem as one of the Righteous among Nations, exemplify the power of humanitarianism amidst adversity.
Commissioned by Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, the symphony is a poignant tribute to Sugihara's life-saving efforts, particularly in granting transit visas to thousands of persecuted Jews.
Mission
The mission of the symphony is to honor Sugihara's legacy and highlight the universal importance of compassion, moral integrity, and societal responsibility, as embodied in the Hebrew concept of Tikkun Olam, or so called "repairing the world".
Aim
Through music and art, the aim of the symphony and its accompanying sculpture is to evoke reflection on the human condition, emphasizing themes of resilience, unity, and the pursuit of beauty amidst darkness.
Music
Auerbach's symphony intertwines the melodic richness of the cello with choral recitations of Yiddish poetry, creating a powerful narrative that speaks to the enduring spirit of the Jewish people. The composition draws inspiration from the Japanese craft technique of Kintsugi, symbolizing the beauty found in imperfection and repair.
Sculpture
The accompanying sculpture, "Silent Psalm," visually represents the symbiosis between Jewish and Japanese cultures, using Kintsugi to mend and elevate brokenness into art. Through bronze casting and intricate detailing, the sculpture embodies the resilience and interconnectedness of humanity.
Music Collaboration
Cellist Kristina Reiko Cooper, alongside composer Lera Auerbach, has played a pivotal role in bringing the symphony to fruition. Their collaboration, supported by Yad Vashem and the American Society of Yad Vashem, underscores the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation in preserving and commemorating historical narratives. The symphony's premiere marks not only a musical milestone but also a testament to the enduring power of art in fostering empathy, understanding, and social change. As Cooper reflects on the project's significance, she underscores the urgent need for compassion and moral clarity in today's tumultuous world.