Following the death of Pope Francis, numerous artists and institutions from the classical music world have shared their thoughts and memories on social media, reflecting on the pontiff’s commitment to humanism, peace, and music.
Daniel Barenboim recalled meeting Pope Francis in 2014, emphasizing their shared roots in Buenos Aires and mutual belief in humanism. “He impressed me with his knowledge of classical music,” Barenboim wrote, highlighting the pope’s empathy and dedication to peace in the Middle East.
Plácido Domingo posted a brief tribute with photos alongside the pope: “Thank you for everything, Holy Father. Rest in peace, welcome to the House of the Lord.”
Eleonora Buratto reflected on the meaning of the name Francis, chosen twelve years ago at the beginning of his pontificate, and described it as a signal of a “revolutionary mission.”
The Bogotá Philharmonic Orchestra remembered the Pope’s 2017 visit to Colombia, when the orchestra and its chorus performed during a mass at Simón Bolívar Metropolitan Park. “Our notes rise again in his memory,” the institution wrote.
Polish baritone Artur Ruciński posted a brief message in Polish: “Pope Francis has died. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord.”
Carmen Giannattasio quoted the pope’s words — “Death does not have the last word” — and wrote: “May his spirit continue to guide humanity toward a more just and compassionate world.”
Israeli soprano Chen Reiss paid tribute with a musical offering, posting a video of herself singing in his memory.
Conductor Paavo Järvi shared a photo of Pope Francis along with a brief message: “R.I.P. Pope Francis 🙏
Aida Garifullina shared memories of a private meeting with Pope Francis during the pandemic. “He looked at me with special tenderness and gave me a rosary with a cross,” she recalled. “I still keep it.”
Conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin reflected on Pope Francis’s legacy of compassion, humility, and inclusivity. He recalled a special moment performing with the Philadelphia Orchestra during the pope’s historic 2015 visit to Philadelphia: “It was a rare and beautiful moment, bringing all of Philadelphia together to offer music in his presence—an offering of unity, peace, and hope.”
In a post from the account @marthaargerichpiano, a photo from 2015 shows Pope Francis receiving a box set of Martha Argerich’s The Complete DG Recordings. “These two Argentine compatriots didn’t cross paths,” the caption reads, “but Pope Francis seemed genuinely happy to receive Martha Argerich’s ‘The Complete DG Recordings’.”
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