Frank Horvat: For Those Who Died Trying

ATMA Classique presents For Those Who Died Trying, the world premiere recording of The Thailand HRDs, an epic 35-movement string quartet by critically-acclaimed Canadian composer Frank Horvat performed by the Mivos Quartet. Each movement is inspired by the narrative behind Luke Duggleby’s photo essay For Those Who Died Trying, which pays homage to the 35 human rights defenders in Thailand who were killed trying to stop powerful interests that wanted to destroy their community’s environment. Following Buddhist tradition, Duggleby traveled across Thailand placing a portrait of each victim at the place where they were murdered or went missing. The Thailand HDRs utilizes just the musical pitches/letters found in each victims’ name, weaving their unique musical DNA into each piece. Composer Frank Horvat gives his audience the time and space to reflect in our fast-paced world. His compositions tell deeply personal stories while permitting audiences to ponder their own. Whether he writes for his band, the concert stage or film and television, his music is both aggressive and introspective. It digs into listeners’ hearts with a driving minimalism and a haunting reflection. Frank’s compositions are based on social injustices as well as the wondrousness of life, love, and longing.