Cellist and composer Tamar Sagiv has released her inaugural album titled Shades of Mourning under the label Solo Luminous.
The album comprises nine pieces: Shades of Mourning, Roots, Intermezzo, And Maybe You Never Used to Be, My Clouds of Grief, The End of Times, Imaginary World, Prelude, and In My Blue. These compositions delve deeply into themes of grief and mourning. Notably, violinist Leerone Hakami and violist Ella Bukszpan contribute their talents on four of the tracks.
Sagiv reflects on the emotional impetus behind the album, saying, “I am writing these words as the Middle East—which is my place of birth—endures continuous suffering. Like myself, my friends, family, and neighbors on the opposite side of dividing fences bear immense pain that intensifies with ongoing conflicts. My grandfather, who was born in Syria and forged by hardship, held onto his belief in peace until his final day. Because of him, I too believe in peace, and I hope that this belief is the one that will never be lost to grief. These experiences of personal loss, shared sorrow, and persistent hope form the foundation of the music on this album.”
Listeners can experience a preview excerpt from the album online.
For those interested, the full album Shades of Mourning is available for listening here.
Originally hailing from Northern Israel, Tamar Sagiv earned her Bachelor’s degree from the Buchmann Mehta School of Music at Tel Aviv University. She further advanced her studies with a Master’s degree and a Professional Diploma (PDPL) at the Mannes School of Music in New York City, under the mentorship of Professor Matt Haimovitz.
Sagiv’s career includes solo performances with orchestras in Israel and Germany, and appearances at venues such as Lincoln Center, the National Bohemian Hall, and the New York Public Library. She has been recognized with awards from the America-Israel Cultural Foundation and the Ronen Foundation, as well as received a Certificate of Honor from renowned conductor Maestro Zubin Mehta.
— The Violin Post Editorial Staff
