Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers World Premier Weekend - The Witness: Incidents of the War of the Rebellion

"What justifies the horrors of war? The abolition of slavery is one of those - but it doesn't mean it's not a terrible, terrible cost to everyone involved." - Thomas LaVoy, composer of The Witness

Join the Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers for a profound musical experience at the world premier of The Witness: Incidents of the War of the Rebellion. This groundbreaking work shares the untold story of James Waxler, the great-great-grandfather of Artistic Director Matthew Koller. Waxler's honest and deeply human journal entries trace his transformation from a young Union soldier full of glory to a man haunted by the dual brutalities of war and slavery.

With input from local community voices, including leaders from the historic Dunbar Community, The Witness celebrates and uplifts the rich cultural heritage and history of our region. Composer Thomas LaVoy weaves together Waxler's journals, notable Civil War poetry, and the music of the formerly enslaved and their descendants to create a powerful cantata, giving voice to the untold stories and experiences of history and calling us to confront questions that still echo today.