Antigone Fantasy II: Hymn to the Human Spirit for orchestra

Antigone Fantasy II: Hymn to the Human Spirit was composed in 1997. The text for the vocal version, “Ode 1,” is taken from Sophocles’ tragedy Antigone. “Ode 1” celebrates the achievements of the human race, praising man’s conquests of the entire universe through his strength and mental power. It implies admiration for Antigone, who buries her brother to satisfy divine law. This courageous act, in defiance of human law, costs Antigone her life. Thus, there is an undercurrent of sadness in this Ode, as Sophocles illustrates the evil as well as the good inherent in man.

This piece was recorded by the Kiev Philharmonic, conducted by Robert Ian Winstin, on the CD "Masterworks of the New Era".