Benedict Sheehan’s

Ukrainian War Requiem
National Tour

In 2022, the Axios Men's Ensemble commissioned Benedict Sheehan, a two-time GRAMMY® Award nominee, to compose a memorial in response to Russia's aggression in Ukraine entitled Ukrainian War Requiem. This war, which began in 2014 and escalated with a full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022, has tragically claimed countless lives. This music is a solemn tribute to these victims.

This year, the Axios Men's Ensemble was awarded Canada's highest musical honour—a JUNO Award for the Classical Album of the Year (Large Ensemble) for the recording of the Ukrainian War Requiem. This marks the first time in JUNO Awards history that an a cappella recording has earned this distinction in the category.

Sheehan's composition, spanning 12 movements, draws inspiration primarily from the Byzantine burial service, a ritual shared by Eastern Catholic and Orthodox churches. Reflecting Ukraine's diverse linguistic and religious landscape, the Requiem also weaves in elements from Jewish and Roman Catholic traditions. These varied texts serve multiple purposes: they offer solace and strength to the living, especially those grieving; they provide a space for praying for both victims and aggressors; and they ultimately aspire to convey hope, peace, and goodwill.

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It is an expansive and sublime piece that skillfully blends modern musical styles with traditional Ukrainian motifs and ancient chants. This arrangement not only reflects the harsh realities of war but also echoes humanity's deep-seated longing for peace, goodness, truth, and beauty.

Featuring over 50 performers, the ensemble brings together members of the Axios Men’s Ensemble, Pro Coro Canada—and select soloists from North America, Europe, and Ukraine. The performance will be conducted by Maestro Michael Zaugg.

This Requiem is more than just music. It is a reverent homage to those affected by the war, a reminder of the enduring human spirit, and a heartfelt tribute to Ukraine and her people.

Join us to experience the Ukrainian War Requiem, as we tour this JUNO award-winning piece across Canada.

Edmonton
Nov
6

Edmonton

Join us for the Edmonton performance of Benedict Sheehan's Ukrainian War Requiem.

6 November 2026 | 7:00 PM
St. Basil's Ukrainian Catholic Church, Edmonton, AB T6H 3B9

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Saskatoon
Nov
7

Saskatoon

Join us for the Saskatoon performance of Benedict Sheehan's Ukrainian War Requiem.

7 November 2026 | 3 PM
Knox United Church, Saskatoon, S7K 3H4

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Winnipeg
Nov
8

Winnipeg

Join us for the Winnipeg performance of Benedict Sheehan's Ukrainian War Requiem.

8 November 2026 | 4:00 PM
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral of Sts. Volodymyr and Olha, 15 McGregor St Winnipeg MB R2W 5J7 Canada

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Montreal
Nov
10

Montreal

Join us for the Montreal performance of Benedict Sheehan's Ukrainian War Requiem.

10 November 2026 | 7:00 PM
Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sophie, 6255 Blvd Saint-Michel, Montreal, Quebec H1Y 2E8

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Ottawa
Nov
11

Ottawa

Join us for the Ottawa performance of Benedict Sheehan's Ukrainian War Requiem.

11 November 2026 | 7:00 PM
Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre, 290 Lisgar St, Ottawa, ON K2P 0G8

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Hamilton
Nov
12

Hamilton

Join us for the Hamilton performance of Benedict Sheehan's Ukrainian War Requiem.

12 November 2026 | 7:00 PM
Holy Spirit Ukrainian Catholic Church, 5 St Olga St, Hamilton ON L8L 6R3

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London
Nov
13

London

Join us for the London performance of Benedict Sheehan's Ukrainian War Requiem.

13 November 2026 | 7:00 PM
Wesley-Knox United Church, 91 Askin St, London ON N6C 1E7

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Kitchener
Nov
14

Kitchener

Join us for the Kitchener performance of Benedict Sheehan's Ukrainian War Requiem.

14 November 2026 | 7:00 PM
The St. Mathews Centre, 54 Benton St, Kitchener ON N2G 3H2

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Toronto
Nov
15

Toronto

Join us for the Toronto performance of Benedict Sheehan's Ukrainian War Requiem.

15 November 2026 | 4:00 PM
St. Paul's Basilica, 83 Power Street, Toronto ON M5A 3A8

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