I am a raving fan, but I'm not talking about the SF Giants, or any sports team.
Last night I had the opportunity to attend Street Requiem: for those who have died on the street. I was excited about this when I first learned about it (on Facebook, no less) and it didn't disappoint.
Composed in Australia in 2014 by Kathleen McGuire, Andy Payne and Jonathon Welch to "bring a sense of peace, remembrance and hope to communities struggling to come to terms with street violence, war and a loss of safety on our streets" last night was its California premier.
Featuring the S.O.S. (Singers of the Street) with choruses from several area churches, this was, without a doubt the most uplifting, memorable concert I've attended.
Frederica von Stadt, world famous mezzo-soprano, joined the Singers of the Street and the chorus -- and I do mean joined. No prima donna here; she was one with the homeless, the struggling ones. No jewels and elaborate costumes, just the same T-shirt the S.O.S. wore, and a simple outfit for the second part of the concert, the Requiem.
I am a raving fan --- of the many people who give of their talents to benefit others; of the street people who practiced long and hard to bring music to us and had the bravery to perform; and of Frederica von Stadt, who stepped off the world's opera stages to share in our common humanity.
My only regret? I took no pictures to share with you. However, a click on the link to Street Requiem will fill in the gaps. And I did find this video which I think captures some of the magic that is Frederica von Stadt.
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