Tell it to the Sky
On Thursday, January 15, the Uilenburgersjoel will host the premiere of Tell it to the Sky, a new cycle of six songs for baritone, piano, and cello. The lyrics were written by poets who currently live (or survive) in Gaza and are affiliated with the Gaza Poets Society.
The Gaza Poets Society is a literary organization dedicated to promoting the work of emerging artists and poets in the Gaza Strip. The organization was founded in 2018 by Gazan poet Mohammed Moussa. Through publications and initiatives, the organization acts as a bridge between Gazan poets and the international literary community.
Tell it to the Sky features poems by Mohammed Moussa, Adel al Ramadi, Hala Salah, and Nour. The poetry paints a poignant picture of a people on the brink of destruction, in which hope and despair are inextricably linked. Hope to survive tomorrow, to find a loved one, hope for rain and flowers. Despair for lost friends and family, amid seemingly endless slaughter, destruction, hunger, and chaos.
The music was composed by Maarten Ornstein, who set six poems to music for baritone, cello, and piano. The performance is in the hands of baritone Mattijs van de Woerd, cellist Nuala McKenna, and pianist Antonii Baryshevskyi.
In addition, there will be a very special guest at this already poignant evening: writer and poet Abdelkader Benali will recite three of his own poems about expulsion and violence. His texts will be interwoven with the musical program, adding an extra layer to this unique premiere.
Mattijs van de Woerd – baritone
Nuala McKenna – cello
Antonii Baryshevskyi – piano
Abdelkader Benali – poetry
With special thanks to the Gaza Poets Society, Amarte Fonds and Musicians without Borders.
