Chiara Schmidt’s Musical Journey: Inspiring Global Action for Our Planet
In 2022, I set out to create a musical project aimed at raising awareness about the climate crisis and generating support for the Union of Concerned Scientists' advocacy programs. That effort began with Three Passions for Our Tortured Planet — a three-movement piano suite exploring the forces of "Fire," "Glaciers," and "Winds."
What started as a personal project quickly grew into a global movement. To date, more than 125 artists have brought their voices to this cause, performing the work across continents — from concert halls to countryside gatherings, and even remixing it in nightclubs in China and North Macedonia. It has been reimagined through multimedia performances, dance collaborations, and more.
Among these talented artists, Chiara Schmidt has emerged as a particularly powerful advocate. A gifted pianist and passionate environmentalist from Italy, Chiara has performed the suite throughout Europe, including in Austria and her native country. She has collaborated with modern dancers to fuse music and movement, deepening the emotional resonance of the work. In a stunning display of her commitment, she also climbed Dirndl Mountain in Austria with a small team and performed the piece atop its peak — an extraordinary moment that will be featured in an upcoming documentary.
Chiara’s connection to the cause runs deep. Her recent commercial recording of Three Passions for Our Tortured Planet is now available on major streaming platforms and for download on Apple Music and others, offering listeners around the world a chance to experience her interpretation of the music — and the urgency behind it.
Please join me in congratulating Chiara for her inspiring efforts. As always, 100% of the royalties I receive from the suite are donated directly to the Union of Concerned Scientists to support their critical work in protecting our planet’s future.
(Excerpt from “Winds”)