Dear Friends,

It was an unforgettable experience for me to travel to Ekaterinburg, Russia, to assist with the SDG-sponsored performance of Verdi's Requiem with the Sverdlovsk State Philharmonic. As a representative of SDG, I had the privilege of sharing the vision of our organization with an entirely new public, and the warm reception it received confirmed again its universal value. Though one could hardly find a better vehicle than the music itself, the mission of SDG was also shared in radio interviews, a press conference, a meeting with representatives from the U.S. embassy, conversations with orchestra personnel, and a pre-concert presentation. At every turn it was a joy to explain the nature of our work.

The central joy of this project was the music and the sense of community it fostered. Between the Russian choir and orchestra and the American guest conductor, Mark Laycock, Verdi's masterpiece transcended barriers of language and culture. To those that attended the concert (the 700-seat hall was packed!), it communicated truth, beauty, and hope in a way that was meaningful both artistically and spiritually; and the response it elicited was wonderful. People were cheering and smiling as they joined in prolonged rhythmic applause. One audience member approached me afterwards saying that it was "awesome," and telling me how he was so blessed by the music and the Requiem text. Mission accomplished!

On a purely monetary level, SDG simply encouraged a performance of sacred music by underwriting a portion of the concert costs and providing the pro bono services of a great conductor. (One orchestra member exclaimed, "Great maestro! Super maestro!") On a less tangible but more meaningful level, however, SDG brought people together to celebrate a powerful work of art that illumines our spiritual nature and relationship to God. How rewarding! This is the heart of SDG.

It is a pleasure for me to reflect on this good work and the many others your support has accomplished through SDG. I look forward to bringing you news of similar projects, their development and culmination, as our plans progress. Meanwhile, please accept my thanks for helping us honor God and bless people through the gift of great music.


Sincerely,
Chandler Branch
Executive Director