Brian Balmages is known worldwide as a composer and conductor who equally spans the worlds of orchestral, band, and chamber music. His music has been performed by groups ranging from professional symphony orchestras to elementary schools in venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, Sydney Opera House, Toronto Centre for the Arts, and many more.
Written as a powerful sequel to Moscow, 1941, this work changes the narrative, where the theme from Moscow now becomes the aggressor, and the heroic people of Ukraine are represented by the Ukrainian National Anthem and the powerful song "Prayer for Ukraine." Certain to spark discussions about humanity, history, and culture, this piece can easily be performed alongside Moscow, 1941 or in place of it. All net proceeds of the initial release are going to relief organizations on the ground in Ukraine. (4:34)