This Double Bill conveys the vastness of the Holocaust’s scope through emotionally rich musical portraits of those caught in its grasp

OUT OF DARKNESS: For a Look or Touch by Jake Heggie, with libretto by Gene Scheer.

Out of Darkness is based on the writings and memories of two Holocaust survivors. The second act in this moving song cycle illuminates Nazi persecution of homosexuals during the Holocaust through the experience of Gad Beck and Manfred Lewin, two idealistic young lovers in 1930s Berlin.

Joel Clemens, baritone will be the voice of the work & he will be accompanied by Rafe Schaberg on piano.

WE WILL OUTLIVE THEM… LETTERS TO RIVKA FROM GALICIA. Music composed by Quinn Gutman

A song cycle world premiere for this music for piano & soprano!

This inspirational cycle is based on letters from the Zeider family living in Galicia (~1925-1948), to their family member who was fortunate to emigrate to America, Rivka Teitel. The title of this work is in honor of the determination of Jewish resilience during the Holocaust: “We will outlive them”.

Jessica Bloch, is the great-granddaughter of Rivka and will be performing these pieces with Rafe Schaberg on piano. The translations of the letters from Yiddish to English were done by the late Hannah Baer have, and have been set to music by composer, Quinn Gutman.

Reception with light bites & open bar follows the performance.

Presented by West End Lyric at BackRoom Boston

Produced by Bloch Performing Arts Inc.