THE SENATE
CANADA

               The Passacaglia has been composed by a leading Canadian composer Oskar Morawetz whose works have been performed by many top ranking orchestras, conductors and soloists throughout the world.

                The theme of this composition is based on one of the most moving chorales from Bach's Passion of our Lord according to St. Matthew's:

   "Be near me Lord when dying, 0 part Thou not from me".

               In order to keep the profound religious feeling of Bach's music which meant 50 much for more than two hundred years to people of all nations the composer has kept this work completely in the style of the period, though using for his medium the colours and dynamic range of a modern orchestra. It is fitting that a theme of such universal compassion should be dedicated by Canadians to the late President Kennedy whose deep humanity was based on a sincere and profound religious conviction.

Donald Cameron
The Senate
Ottawa, Canada
September 17, 1964.