‘Through Healers’ Eyes’ was composed and arranged by Catherine Likhuta and was proudly presented by The University of Queensland’s School of Music as part of the UQ Vice-Chancellor’s Concert Series.
‘Through Healers’ Eyes’ is an elegy for symphony orchestra. The original version was commissioned for wind band by Brisbane Girls Grammar School, where it was premiered at their 2020 International Women’s Day musical showcase. The symphony orchestra version was commissioned by The University of Queensland’s School of Music, and it receives its world premiere today. The piece was inspired by the life story of a Brisbane nurse, Grace Wilson—in particular, her work as a high-ranked army nurse with the Australian Army Nursing Service during World War I and the early years of World War II. Interestingly, my great grandmother, Lydia Holovko, who helped raise me, was also a war nurse, though on the other side of the world—in Ukraine. As a result, this topic was very close to my heart. This piece is an emotional depiction of war as seen by war nurses, the way I imagine it. It is about healing, courage, compassion, patience, care, battle, reflection and perseverance.
Read more: https://music.uq.edu.au/verdisrequiem
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