The Society of Saint Romanos the Melodist is excited to announce a memorial concert and a world-premiere performance of a new choral work—With Eyes Unveiled, occurring on January 19th, 2025. Composer and conductor, Fr. Ivan Moody, passed into eternity on January 18th, 2024. His untimely death sent a wave of deep sadness and loss throughout the Orthodox music world and beyond. To honor his memory and music, the Society has commissioned a new work from composer, Kurt Sander, which will be premiered by the St. Romanos Cappella, Peter Jermihov, Director. The program will also include choral works by Fr. Ivan. The concert will be hosted by the St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago. Kurt Sander describes his vision and content of the new work: “The title of this work comes from a verse in Psalm 118(119) that reads, Unveil mine eyes that I may behold the wondrous things of Thy Law. The state of our earthly life conceals a clear image of the Divine, much like a veil that covers the eyes. The Christian faith teaches that the passing from this life to the Heavenly realm is a transformation where the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality. It is only in this blessed state that we acquire the full and unobscured vision of the Uncreated Light of God. It is then that, in the words of the Evangelist John, we shall see Him as He is.”
Founded in 2001, the Society of Saint Romanos the Melodist is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting Eastern Orthodox culture and sacred music. Through unique cultural events such as musical commissions, concerts, theological seminars, and pilgrimages, the Society fosters a deeper appreciation of Orthodox cultural traditions in America. Endorsed by Members of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of North and Central America, the Society also supports two chamber choirs, one consisting of Orthodox Christians and the other of professional singers from the Chicagoland area.
The event will take place at St. Andrew Greek Orthodox Church (5649 N Sheridan Road, Chicago). The concert is at 4:30 PM CST and will be preceded by a lecture led by Dr. Kurt Sander at 3:30 PM CST. Tickets are $38 and available to purchase online through Eventbrite and on-site.
