Program Note
Tree of Life is a deeply personal choral work inspired by composer Sam’s great-uncle, Zenon Neumark—a Holocaust survivor who rebuilt his life in Los Angeles. At Sam’s request, Zenon penned a poem reflecting on human suffering, love, and the ways we evolve in the face of hatred. That text became the heart of this piece, which juxtaposes the warmth of American choral traditions—evoking composers like Lauridsen and Whitacre—with the darker, dissonant textures of Eastern European folk music. This contrast embodies both the enduring pain of the past and the potential for healing. Through contrasting harmonies, pitch, and voicing, the piece explores the complex journey of community, reverence, and transformation, challenging both performers and audiences to confront darkness while reaching for the light.
Premiered at Carnegie Hall, Tree of Life honors Zenon Neumark’s path from unimaginable loss to a life of love and meaning. Dedicated to the victims of the 2018 shooting at Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life synagogue, it stands as a solemn reflection on tragedy—and a call for healing, resilience, and compassion in the face of hate.
Audio
Perusal Score
Text
TREE OF LIFE Since the beginning of time, we've shown our bright and darker sides. And there were good and notable creations, but also terrible horrors. There were brave acts of kindness. Always goodness, nobility and love, but also suffering. So much hatred! Nienawidzic! (hatred) So much poison! Strach i zdrada! (fear and betrayal) Where does such hatred come from? How can such hatred be defeated? Our prayers have gone unanswered, our love is unrequited. Since the beginning of time, might there be love, could there be love and understanding? Until the end of time.
About the PoetZenon Neumark was a Holocaust survivor, author, and speaker. Born in Poland, he survived both the Auschwitz and Buchenwald concentration camps before emigrating to the U.S., where he built a life in Los Angeles with his family. He became known for his work with B’nai B’rith and for his memoir, Hiding in the Open, which chronicles his remarkable story of resilience. Until his death in 2023, he remained a passionate advocate for remembrance, tolerance, and human dignity. |
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To inquire about performance rights, licensing, or to commission new work, please contact my agent:
owen@summersartistservices.com
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