On May 29, 2025, the Zion Lutheran Church in San Antonio, Texas, became the site of a deeply moving musical event – the world premiere of Sacred Suite for flute choir by acclaimed composer Eugene Magalif. The performance was presented by the Fiesta Flutes of San Antonio under the direction of Maestro Robert D. Rubio and formed part of the ensemble’s annual Military Appreciation Concert, honoring Memorial Day and paying tribute to fallen servicemen and women.
The evening was not only a moment of collective remembrance but also a milestone celebration of the 20th anniversary of Fiesta Flutes of San Antonio, a community ensemble known for its inclusivity, dedication to musical growth, and vibrant presence in Central Texas. The concert, which also featured the Prickly Pear Clarinet Ensemble, was free and open to the public, welcoming attendees into an atmosphere that merged reverence, unity, and artistic excellence.
Amid this atmosphere of reflection and commemoration, the premiere of Sacred Suite stood as the concert’s spiritual and emotional centerpiece – both in purpose and in sound.
A Suite Born from Friendship, Faith, and Artistic Vision
The story behind Sacred Suite begins with a chance encounter that turned into a meaningful collaboration. Magalif first connected with Maestro Robert D. Rubio through social media, but their in-person meeting at the 2024 National Flute Association Convention in San Antonio solidified a mutual respect. During the convention, Rubio purchased several of Magalif’s scores and introduced the composer to flutist Alekzandr Skye, who later performed Magalif’s Colibri on piccolo.
Moved by the dedication of the ensemble and aware that 2025 would mark its 20th anniversary, Magalif offered to compose a work in honor of the occasion. Following discussions with the ensemble’s members, the commission was confirmed – and Magalif began writing what would become Sacred Suite.
Having spent many years working in American churches as a choral and music director, Magalif chose to channel his personal understanding of sacred traditions into this new composition. He was inspired by the profound role religion plays in Southern American culture and aimed to create a work that would speak across denominations – Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox – through shared spiritual themes.
The Music: Four Movements, One Sacred Journey
Sacred Suite is structured in four contrasting movements, each rooted in a distinct spiritual idea and musical language. Rather than quoting specific hymns, Magalif sought to evoke the spirit of sacred traditions through original material that resonates with emotional sincerity and universal symbolism.
- First Prayer – The Beatitudes
The opening movement draws its inspiration from the Beatitudes in the Gospel of Matthew. With flowing lines and meditative textures, it portrays the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. The music invites inward contemplation, embracing gentleness, mercy, and hope. - Chorale – Eternal Music
A heartfelt tribute to Magalif’s first composition teacher, this second movement functions as a hymn-like chorale. Its harmonic simplicity and lyrical phrasing offer a moment of peace and personal reflection, capturing the timeless quality of sacred song. - Second Prayer – The Lord’s Prayer
The third movement embodies the “Our Father,” one of the most widely known Christian prayers. Here, Magalif’s writing becomes more solemn and direct, grounding the listener in reverence while allowing the music to speak the words that remain unspoken. - Cherubic Hymn
Rooted in the traditions of Eastern Orthodox liturgy, the final movement reflects the grandeur and mysticism of the Cherubic Hymn, a central element of the Divine Liturgy. Divided into three contrasting sections, the movement unfolds with introspective reverence before building to a radiant, celebratory conclusion.
A Milestone in the Composer’s Journey
The premiere of Sacred Suite marked not only a milestone for the Fiesta Flutes of San Antonio but also a significant evolution in Eugene Magalif’s compositional voice. While known for his colorful orchestrations and lyrical melodies, this suite reveals a deeper, more introspective side of the composer – one informed by lived spiritual experience and a mature understanding of musical narrative.
The performance, delivered with devotion and precision by the Fiesta Flutes under Maestro Rubio’s guidance, brought the work to life in a way that honored both its emotional gravity and musical complexity. It was a premiere that resonated with sincerity, beauty, and purpose.
With Sacred Suite, Eugene Magalif has expanded his artistic reach and delivered a work that stands as a testament to faith, memory, and human connection. It is a composition that not only commemorates a community and a cause but also marks the composer’s own growth – into new expressive terrain, and into a composer of ever-deepening artistic depth.
For Those Who Missed the Premiere
A video recording of the world premiere is available, preserving the emotional depth and refined artistry of this extraordinary debut. It offers a chance for broader audiences – and future performers – to experience the work as it was first envisioned by the composer and brought to life by the Fiesta Flutes.
Looking Ahead
With its powerful spiritual resonance and finely crafted textures, Eugene Magalif’s Sacred Suite is poised to become a significant addition to the flute choir repertoire. Its universal themes and multi-denominational scope invite ensembles around the world to engage with the work, not only as performers but as interpreters of its profound message.
For more information about Sacred Suite, future performances, and publication details, please visit ALRY Publications and Fiesta Flutes of San Antonio.
