Houston’s official fitness czar, Samir Becic, is known for his dedication to promoting health and wellness. However, his passion for cultural experiences and the arts extend beyond the fitness realm. Recently, Samir had the opportunity to travel to Chicago and attend a special classical music concert titled “Melodies of Europe” at Sts. Volodymyr and Otha Ukrainian Church. With Philip Simmons as the Music Director and Samir Hadzalic lending his captivating vocals, accompanied by the talented Lincolnwood Chamber Orchestra, the event was a remarkable celebration of European traditions and freedom. The event was organized by American Music Festivals, a nonprofit committed to cultural exchange and preserving orchestral heritage and the event was kicked off we a pre-concert talk by Amb. Jonathan Moore.
American Music Festivals (AMF) regularly presents concerts in the Chicago area by the Lincolnwood Chamber Orchestra. AMF is a collaborative organization, performing in many diverse communities with concerts at a variety of venues. AMF’s international outreach has focused primarily on Eastern and Central Europe, with Artistic Director Philip Simmons conducting programs of American music in leading cultural centers, and artists from abroad appearing in Chicago. As a non-profit, AMF is dedicated to preserving orchestral heritage and promoting cultural exchange through its concerts. With a commitment to artistic excellence and discovery, the organization brings people together, providing a platform for musicians to showcase their talents and cultural backgrounds to diverse audiences. Whether performing on renowned stages worldwide or engaging in community events focused on education, American Music Festivals aims to foster goodwill through its orchestral programs.
Speaker Ambassador Jonathan Moore, a native of Lake County, Illinois, recently retired after a distinguished 30-year career in the U.S. Foreign Service, during which he held significant roles addressing issues like the UN, health, and science while based in regions across Europe, Africa, and the former Soviet Union. Beyond his diplomatic assignments, Moore also maintained an affinity for music through his support of American Music Festivals, having attended their concerts extensively and even hosted Maestro Simmons in Belarus. Moore’s background and continuing passion for cultural exchange through music have left a lasting legacy within both the field of diplomacy and the nonprofit world.
On Saturday, November 11, at 3:30 pm, the doors of Sts. Volodymyr and Otha Ukrainian Church opened to welcome music enthusiasts. The captivating melodies transported the audience on a journey through the diverse musical traditions of Europe, featuring songs from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Poland, and Ukraine. Becic is passionate about both physical fitness and the arts, so this unique event combining classical music and European heritage was a perfect fit.
Because of his Bosnian roots, Becic found the program especially moving. “It was wonderful to experience music from different parts of Europe all in one place,” said Becic. “Ambassador Jonathan Moore’s introduction was heartfelt and moving. As a well-known polyglot, he can understand different European traditions as well, if not better, than a native. The orchestra, vocalist Samir Hadzalic, and director Philip Simmons did an incredible job bringing these melodies to life. You could really feel the emotion and pride in European culture through the music.”
I was deeply moved by an incredible classical music experience while in Chicago! The concert directed by Philip Simmons and vocals by Samir Hadzalic transported me through the sounds of music from #Bosnia and Herzegovina, #Bulgaria, #CzechRepublic, #Poland, and #Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/UtpyrHqNef
— Samir Becic (@SamirBecic) November 13, 2023
The “Melodies of Europe” concert not only celebrated European traditions but also highlighted the beauty of cultural richness. Each piece performed by the Lincolnwood Chamber Orchestra and Samir Hadzalic’s soulful vocals painted a vibrant picture of the diverse European heritage. The melodies weaved together tales of triumph, resilience, and the enduring spirit of freedom.
Music director Philip Simmons is a highly accomplished conductor who has performed in prestigious venues worldwide. As the Artistic Director of American Music Festivals and Music Director of the Lincolnwood Chamber Orchestra, he has conducted in over 20 countries and worked with renowned orchestras. Simmons founded the Orchestra of the Hawaiian Islands and is committed to promoting cultural diversity through music. He is also an educator and has collaborated with esteemed musicians. Simmons is a versatile musician, proficient in classical guitar, and has released recordings with his daughter Penelope. With a Master’s Degree in Music Composition and a rich conducting background, he remains dedicated to sustaining orchestral traditions and advocating for the arts.
Samir Hadzalic, a dedicated vocalist, has long been an advocate of Bosnian culture. Through his collaborations with American Music Festivals, he has successfully fostered unity within the community. Samir Hadzalic’s contributions to the orchestra include introducing new works and arrangements of Bosnian music, as well as showcasing the rich Sevdah tradition through his performances. He has also held significant roles such as Editor and Host of “Radio Voice of the Bosniaks Chicago” and Event Organizer for the “Celebration of 100 years of Bosniaks in the USA 2005.” Samir Hadzalic’s unique vocal style, rooted in the improvised folk tradition, serves as a vital connection to the cultural heritage of the past.
Samir Becic, known for his commitment to health and fitness, recognizes the importance of holistic well-being, which includes embracing cultural experiences. His attendance at the “Melodies of Europe” concert exemplifies his dedication to promoting a balanced and enriched lifestyle that goes beyond physical fitness (music has many health benefits!).
