A large symphonic work with music and libretto by Lera Auerbach featuring solo cello, choir, and orchestra commemorating the incredible and singular heroism of Chiune Sugihara. The project was conceived of by cellist Kristina Reiko Cooper and brought to life with major commissioning support from Yad Vashem, The World Holocaust Center in Jerusalem.

As a Japanese consul in Lithuania during World War II, Sugihara, a seemingly ordinary man, rose above the terror of the Nazi regime by risking his life and career in saving 6.000 Jews who were fleeing Europe. His act of courage was an unparalleled example of compassion at a time of great darkness and evil.

The World Premiere will take place in Lithuania on November 5th, 2022 with the Kaunas Symphony Orchestra and Kaunas State Choir under the leadership of music director Constantine Orbelian. Kaunas, in addition to being the city where Sugihara was vice-consul and where he issued the visas that saved so many lives, has been chosen as the Cultural Capital of Europe in 2022 and the performance of this new work will be one of the featured highlights of the celebration.

More information about project: www.sugiharasymphony.com