Duration: 5'
Commissioned by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta
This composition was commissioned by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta for a premiere at the Archangel Michael Awards Banquet held annually in Atlanta on or near the Feast Day of Archangel Michael (November 8) and recognizing persons from throughout the Southeastern United states who have rendered significant service to the Church over the course of many years. The brief work is energetic and celebratory in nature interspersing fanfare sections with variations of the Apolytikion for Archangel Michael, patron of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta, as well as freely composed material. In the Orthodox Christian Church, an Apolytikion is a short hymn or stanza (troparion) that specifically summarizes the accomplishments of a particular saint or the commemoration of an event on a given Feast Day. Through the small confines of this piece, I am humbled to have been given an opportunity to honor those who selflessly serve others. Also, in a world that is currently being torn apart by needless division, hatred, and violence, the entreaty found in the Apolytikion for Archangel Michael seems especially relevant:
O Chief Commander of the heavenly armies, we the unworthy now entreat you in earnest to fortify us by your supplications to the Lord and shelter us beneath the wings of your spiritual glory, guarding us who run to you and fervently entreat you. As the Commander of the hosts on high, rescue us faithful from dangers of every kind.