Dear Friends,

I have wonderful composer news to share with you.

The Grammy Award-Winning Phoenix Chorale will premiere my composition Out of the Ash, on March 18, 19, and 20. This commission musically narrates the mythological tales surrounding the shape-shifting bird known as the Phoenix and its rebirth, which is set to poetry written by the poet laureate of Phoenix, Rosemarie Dombrowski. (Please feel free to read the poem below).

Originally the piece was representative of the city and people of Phoenix, a multicultural metropolis with a vast population stemming from many cultures. The flora, fauna, topography, and climate of the Sonoran Desert are omnipresent as well. However, the overall scope of the piece has taken on new and deeper meaning since its inception. With a global pandemic still impacting our daily lives, as well as ongoing threats to our safety and security, we, the creators, believe this piece represents all of us—the global community, humankind. Perhaps now, more than ever, these words resonate with all of us: Renew us, make us anew.

Please join us for this uplifting program of renewal! 

You can purchase your tickets here.

Read about Kira and Rosemarie's collaboration on pg. 17.

Watch Kira's interview on Channel 8, PBS Horizons, starting at 12:33. 

I hope to see you at the Phoenix Choral Concerts re:BIRTH this coming weekend! 

Sincerely, 

Kira Z. Rugen

*Graphics and art below were created by Aaron Vilallobos, Patron Services and Communications Manager for the Phoenix Chorale. 

This is the first official Kira Z. Rugen, Composer newsletter, and I think you might enjoy hearing about upcoming events or news regarding my compositions. I hope you will consider adding your email below so you can learn about my activities in future correspondence. 

I have exciting events to share in the coming months! 

With my deepest gratitude - Kira