Left No One Behind: UNITAR-NYO and IAA Champion Global Unity Through Cultural Diplomacy
- Jolie Yang
- Dec 19, 2024
- 13 min read
Updated: May 7
19 December 2024, New York, USA – On the evening of December 17, 2024, the prestigious Stern Auditorium of Carnegie Hall was imbued with an air of stately grandeur as it hosted an unparalleled musical event orchestrated by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research - New York Office (UNITAR-NYO) and the International Academy for Arts and Cultural Studies (IAA). Titled "In Celebration of the Work of the 79th United Nations General Assembly and President H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang: A Concert For Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and Sustainability - An Annual UN Family Reunion," The concert celebrated the achievements of the year 2024 and anticipated the upcoming 80th anniversary of the United Nations in 2025.
The concert was emblematic of a storied tradition of cultural diplomacy originated by Maestro Leonard Bernstein and Madame Eleanor Roosevelt in 1945, dedicated to the United Nations for the purpose of Peace, Prosperity, and Unity. Recalled by Ambassador Marco A. Suazo in 2021, the tradition became a symbolic reunion of the United Nations family. This year's edition was underpinned by sponsoring member states, including Costa Rica, the Republic of El Salvador, the Republic of Singapore, the Principality of Monaco, the Sultanate of Oman, and the Portuguese Republic, along with support from esteemed institutions, including the Boston Conservatory at Berklee College, the Boston StringAcademy, Shanghai University, Teachers College of Columbia University, Tsinghua University, and notably, with the special acknowledgment to Carnegie Hall and the International Academy for Arts and Cultural Studies (IAA) for their support to the United Nations and the Sustainable Development agenda.
The night opened with a series of meticulously curated performances, beginning with "Speak Softly, Love" from The Godfather, rendered by the acclaimed tenor Luciano Lamonarca, accompanied by pianist Laurie Adamo. This was followed by a stirring rendition of "You’ll Never Walk Alone" from Carousel, imbuing the auditorium with a reflective ambiance. The narrative deepened with contributions from Ignazio Campisi, whose poignant tenor voice breathed life into arias from Puccini's Tosca and Salvatore Cardillo's "Core ’Ngrato," culminating in a duet with Lamonarca in Eduardo di Capua’s "O Sole Mio." Each performance was accentuated by Adamo's masterful accompaniment, weaving a tapestry of operatic grandeur.
The evening commenced with profound remarks from H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang, President of the 79th United Nations General Assembly, who said “This evening’s concert reminds us of the principles that unite us: Cooperation, solidarity, and an unwavering commitment to peace and justice. Our togetherness this evening makes it clear that diplomacy and international cooperation are fundamental to the various ends of the United Nations. An essence, which is captured also in music. Music unites us all of us across borders, touches hearts, beyond words, and reaffirms our shared mission for peace, development, and dignity, as we listen tonight, just a few months to the United Nations’ 80thanniversary, let the music inspire us to build bridges, to take action and to work together toward a more peaceful and justify for everyone, everywhere.” This articulated the profound connection between the evening's thematic pillars with the overarching mission of the United Nations, and it set a hopeful tone for the forthcoming celebration of the 80th anniversary in 2025, which promises to be a momentous occasion to celebrate achievements and renew commitments to the UN’s enduring values.
Subsequently, H.E. Ms. Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group, offered her insights by “This annual concert is a treasury tradition of the United Nations Secretariat, a moment that brings us together, to share. and connect with everyone…One thing is clear: we are more united by our shared humanity, non-divided by our different identities, and the only way to tackle our shared challenge is through unity and diversity.” emphasizing the vital role of such cultural events in advancing the global sustainable development agenda. Furthermore, H.E. Ms. Amina J. Mohammed expressed gratitude towards H.E. Mr. Philemon Yang, President of the 79th United Nations General Assembly, whose leadership was instrumental in achieving the 'Pact for the Future' during his tenure.
The concert program unfolded with a spellbinding performance by Jülide Yalçın, the first female concertmaster of the Presidential Symphony Orchestra of Türkiye—a trailblazer in her field whose artistry and leadership have made her a prominent figure in the international classical music scene. Accompanied by the delicate and assured touch of pianist Sarah Infini Takagi, Yalçın delivered a transcendent interpretation ofJules Massenet’s Méditation from Thaïs, a piece celebrated for its ethereal beauty and emotional depth.
Yalçın’s violin, imbued with both sensitivity and strength, seemed to breathe life into each note, her bow gliding effortlessly across the strings with a grace that held the audience in rapt stillness. With a performance marked by emotional resonance and technical mastery, she captured the contemplative essence of Massenet's composition, transforming the music into an intimate dialogue between the instrument and listener. Each phrase presented like a whisper of introspection, carrying with it an unspoken narrative of longing and serenity. Reflecting on her approach, Yalçın shared, " I strive to create a space where the audience can experience the depth of their own emotions through the music, almost like a mirror reflecting their innermost feelings."
The evening’s emotional resonance deepened with Sojourner, an evocative and narrative-driven composition by Daniel Lee, a 17-year-old youth composer whose work reflects the voice and vision of the next generation. At such a young age, Lee demonstrated a remarkable ability to harness music as a vehicle for storytelling and as a response to the pressing challenges of our time. Sojourner explored themes of resilience, hope, and the universal search for belonging—a reflection of the world’s complex realities viewed through the eyes of a generation poised to inherit them. Lee poignantly remarked, “Travelers, transient, temporary residents. These words all describe the sojourner. We are all sojourners, temporary residents of a plane where we dwell for only a moment.” Performed with sensitivity and precision by Jorge Soto, Jülide Yalçın, Byron Wei-Xin Zhou, Thomas Burrill, Emily Scicchitano, Alicia Rando Ibanez, Leonardo Vasquez, Sophie Shao, and Marco Panascia, Lee’s composition unfolded like a conversation across generations, blending poignant melodies with dynamic contrasts that symbolized both struggle and perseverance. The music was at once contemplative and urgent, signaling the way forward as envisioned by a young artist deeply aware of his place in a rapidly changing world. Lee's ability to express the next generation's approach—one defined by empathy, innovation, and determination— underscored the transformative power of youth to inspire progress and unity.
A pivotal moment of the evening arrived with the presentation of Leonard Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms, performed with grace and precision by the Columbia University Teachers College Choir under the expert direction of Derrick L. Thompson. The work, a masterful blend of Hebrew psalms and modern choral textures, stood as a poignant tribute to Bernstein’s enduring legacy—as a composer and a visionary educator who believed deeply in music’s ability to inspire and unite humanity. The performance of this intricate and spiritually uplifting work resonated with Bernstein’s original intention: to transcend barriers of language and culture while nurturing a deeper understanding of our shared human values.
Jeanne Goffi Fynn, the Program Director of the TC Choir, said, “The Columbia University—TC choir is co-constructed with graduate students and community members. The program aims to facilitate the mission that voices are heard and shared both literally and figuratively.”
This was followed by a rousing and triumphant rendition of Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” from Messiah, a piece that has echoed across centuries as a celebration of joy, resilience, and divine inspiration. Performed by Columbia University – TC Choir in collaboration with the Boston String Academy Teachers Ensemble, the presentation merged precision with exuberance, transforming Carnegie Hall into a space of collective jubilation. The Hallelujah Chorus, with its soaring crescendos and bold harmonies, has long served as an educational cornerstone for musicians, often marking the journey where students first encounter the discipline and joy of large-scale choral music.
Following the intermission, the stage came alive with an explosion of energy as Akili Jamal Haynes, also known as Chibuzo Dunun, and his dynamic ensemble, World of Chibuzo, delivered a rousing performance of “Listen to Your Dreams.” From the first striking notes, Haynes, a multifaceted musician, composer, and creative force, captivated the audience with his ability to blend rhythmic complexity and melodic warmth into a celebration of ambition, creativity, and boundless possibility. The piece, a jubilant composition that evoked themes of self-belief and resilience, pulsed with vibrant rhythms and bold harmonies that filled Carnegie Hall with an infectious vitality. Haynes’ leadership was as captivating as the music itself—each gesture summoned dynamic interplay between the musicians, resulting in a cohesive and exhilarating soundscape. The performance celebrated not only the power of dreams but also the importance of courage in pursuing them—a message especially resonant for younger generations seeking to forge new pathways, with rhythmic motifs that seemed to mirror a heartbeat of hope and melodies that soared with optimism. Haynes emphasized, “It honors the rich musical heritage of Africa and its diaspora, inspiring us to connect with our roots and envision a future filled with possibilities.”
The evening continued with a mesmerizing journey through the Four Folklore suite, a medley of Latin American traditions performed by Venezuelan virtuoso Carlos Capacho and his ensemble. A master of the cuatro, Capacho brought the instrument—often considered the heartbeat of Venezuelan folk music— to life with astonishing dexterity, blending the rhythmic pulse of traditional melodies with modern textures. Accompanied by the deft percussion of Daniel Prim and pianist Hanna Noh, the trio unveiled a soundscape rich in color and emotion, as if transporting the audience to the vibrant streets, lush landscapes, and celebratory gatherings of Latin America. The medley explored the region’s vast cultural tapestry, highlighting its rhythms, syncopations, and harmonic depth while celebrating the people and stories embedded within the music. The performance was further elevated with “Reflection of Faith” and “World Music,” soulful renditions that captured a universal language of hope and togetherness. Capacho’s ensemble displayed extraordinary technical mastery throughout, seamlessly transitioning between moments of tranquil beauty and high-spirited exuberance. “My music is my reflection to the world,” said Capacho, “It is about sharing stories that transcend borders and resonates deeply within us all.” Their music connected cultures and generations, offering both a celebration of Latin America’s artistic heritage and a reminder of its influence on the global stage. It was a triumphant tribute to the emotional power of music in preserving traditions and fostering cross-cultural dialogue.
The journey then headed to Asia once the Tsinghua University Oriental Folk Music Ensemble, under the direction of the esteemed Zhihao Chen and Yuchen Liu, presented two breathtaking works—“Fair Flowers under Full Moon” and “Dun-Huang”—that immersed the audience in the timeless elegance of Asian musical heritage. With every note and gesture, the ensemble embodied both technical mastery and profound cultural storytelling, bringing centuries-old traditions to life with reverence and artistry. “Fair Flowers under Full Moon” unfolded like a delicate painting, its melodies blooming with a serene beauty that mirrored the quiet majesty of a moonlit landscape. The musicians’ meticulous phrasing and delicate precision evoked the stillness of nature, inviting the audience into a meditative reflection on harmony and peace.
Bin Yang, the Vice President of Tsinghua University, elaborated that: “At Tsinghua University, we are deeply grateful for this opportunity to showcase the talent and dedication of our students on such a prestigious global stage. Their performance at the UN Gala not only highlights the richness of China's cultural heritage but also exemplifies the transformative power of the arts in fostering mutual understanding and collaboration across cultures. This experience is a testament to the impact of cultural exchange in building bridges of trust and friendship worldwide.” And Ying Liao, Director of Tsinghua University’s Global Competence Center, noted: “Our students truly value this opportunity, as it fosters meaningful dialogue and exchange through culture and the arts, serving as a powerful bridge for understanding and trust.”
In contrast, “Dun-Huang” transported listeners to the ancient Far East, where diverse cultures once converged in artistic exchange. Through rich textures and dynamic transitions, the piece illustrated the grandeur and mystique of Asia’s historic heartlands. The ensemble’s skillful interplay between plucked, bowed, and wind instruments created a soundscape that was at once ancient and timeless, connecting the past with the present. With performances that honored their cultural roots while resonating with modern audiences, the ensemble demonstrated the power of art to preserve heritage while fostering global appreciation for its beauty. Carnegie Hall became, for a moment, a bridge to China’s rich legacy of music and storytelling.
The concert approached its climax with an extraordinary performance of Chopin’s “Andante Spianato et Grande Polonaise Brillante,” delivered by the pianist Byron Wei-Xin Zhou, accompanied by the Boston String Academy Orchestra. A luminary of his generation, Zhou, having graced five sessions with his presence on the stage of Carnegie Hall in this concert tradition, once again showed he exhibited unparalleled technical virtuosity and profound expressive depth in his rendition of this formidable masterpiece. The Andante Spianato unfolded with lyrical delicacy, Zhou’s phrasing evoking a sense of quiet introspection as the piano seemed to whisper stories of grace and longing. With each touch of the keys, he brought out Chopin’s romantic lyricism, building a musical narrative that invited listeners into the composer’s emotional world. As the piece transitioned into the Polonaise Brillante, Zhou seamlessly shifted from introspection to jubilant virtuosity, unleashing waves of dazzling technique and rhythmic vigor. The Boston String Academy Orchestra, under the baton of Maestro Jorge Soto, provided a sensitive and vibrant accompaniment, enriching the performance with depth and nuance. The orchestra’s ability to balance precision with warmth created a lush foundation upon which Zhou’s performance soared, blending elegance with exhilaration.
The audience, captivated by the interplay of refined expression and virtuosic brilliance, sat enraptured as Zhou’s hands danced across the keyboard with unparalleled clarity and control. The performance became emblematic of the concert’s overarching themes of resilience, harmony, and artistic excellence—a testament to music’s ability to inspire awe and connection across generations. As the final notes reverberated through the hall, there was a collective moment of breathless silence before an eruption of applause, marking the triumph of Chopin’s timeless genius.
The evening continued with the Boston String Academy delivering a vibrant and polished sequence of performances that showcased their exceptional artistry and versatility with Carlos Gardel’s Por una Cabeza. This iconic tango has transcended its origins to become a universal symbol of longing and romance. The Boston String Academy rendered Gardel’s timeless melody with a delicate balance of refinement and sentimentality. The ensemble’s interpretation allowed the rich warmth of the strings to shine, capturing both the melancholic yearning and exuberant charm embedded in the piece. The ebb and flow of the music mirrored the elegance of a tango dancer’s movements—graceful, emotive, and nostalgic.
Mariesther Alvarez, co-founder and program director of the Boston String Academy, shares her experience: “Musicians of BSA. Their relentless rehearsal schedule and commitment to excellence not only prepared them for this moment but also instilled a deep understanding of the cultural connections that music can forge. It's a privilege to witness their growth into not just skilled artists but also a part of cultural unity.”
“This opportunity for the students of the BoCo to partner with the Boston String Academy to share a performance for the UN General Assembly at Carnegie Hall was truly extraordinary. The incredible creative work of the artistic team, masterfully led and organized by Jorge Soto and Byron Zhou, was infectious and easily projected into the audience throughout the performance,” stated Matthew Marsit, Chair of Instrumental Studies at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee, “Most importantly, this event very clearly fulfilled its purpose of unifying a widely diverse group of people through the power of music, serving as the universal language that transcends all borders, boundaries, and differences.”
The evening was greatly enhanced by the significant contributions of Professor Jin Jiangbo, who holds the prestigious positions of Executive Dean and Professor at the Shanghai Academy of Fine Arts, Shanghai University. In a remarkable fusion of artistic disciplines, Professor Jiangbo provided each attendee with a copy of his album "Peace," which served as the program note-book for the event. His profound commentary, "We, as artists, are committed to utilizing art to enhance life and ignite the warmth of our society," resonated deeply with the audience. This thoughtful integration went beyond mere participation, embedding a richer, more nuanced layer of artistic dialogue into the fabric of the event.
The album "Peace" itself was a curated collection of visual and musical artistry, featuring Professor Jiangbo’s artistic annotations that narrated each piece. These annotations did not simply serve as guides; they were profound reflections on the role of art in society, offering insights that bridged the visual and auditory experiences of the attendees. By weaving together the threads of visual art and musical performance, Professor Jiangbo underscored the transformative power of the arts in cultivating a deeper societal connection and understanding, thereby enhancing the collective experience and leaving a lasting impact on all who were present.
Further enriching the event, the Global Ballet Center, led by Ms. Zou Zhirui (Regina), presented a poignant artistic contribution titled "Boundaryless," a series of works painted by Mr. Zhuo Fumin. This artwork was transformed into a postcard and served as a cherished souvenir for all attendees, symbolizing the boundless nature of artistic and cultural exchange. Zou states that: “Art, in its boundless forms, invites us to transcend traditional barriers, fostering a dialogue that unites and enriches us all.” Mr. Zhuo, the artist, added: “Art to me is a secluded retreat hidden deep in the mountains where wounds are healed, is a peaceful harbor to which one can always return.”
As the evening drew to a close, the performers converged for a spirited "Navidad Latina Medley," a festive finale that stood as a vibrant celebration of unity and cultural diversity, echoing through the halls of Carnegie Hall. The collaborative spirit of the musicians resonated with every note, encapsulating the power of music to forge communal bonds and inspire hope across generations.
Byron Wei-Xin Zhou, the Artist Director, shared, “This evening’s performance is a celebration of the vibrancy of cultural unity and diversity. Our collective effort tonight symbolizes how art could serve as a tool in diplomacy that can bridge divides and connect us across continents and generations.” Jorge Soto, conductor of the night, said, “Leading such a dynamic array of talent on this prestigious stage has been both an honor and a profound responsibility. Our performance tonight embodied the unity and diversity that define our global community.”
This extraordinary concert not only reaffirmed the enduring power of music as a medium for education, cultural exchange, and global citizenship but also served as a poignant reminder of the United Nations' mission to foster understanding, bridge divides, and create a sustainable and harmonious future for all. The legacy of cultural diplomacy, championed since Bernstein’s era, continues to resonate, promising to play a significant role in the global narrative for years.
“Amid trials, this event reminds us of the enduring strength found in shared humanity and collaboration,” said Ambassador Marco A. Suazo, head of the office, UNITAR-NYO, who hosted tonight's concert, “Your support not only enriches this event but reinforces the bonds that unite us in our collective pursuit of peace, prosperity, and progress.”
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