The firemen’s prayer
A Symphony of Gratitude: The Firemen’s Prayer
In March 2005, Charles-Henri Avelange, a young composer from the south of France, stepped onto American soil for the first time. What awaited him was not just a new country, but a profound connection that would shape his life’s work. Firefighters, first responders, U.S. military veterans, and their families opened their hearts to him, embracing his music with a warmth that left an indelible mark. Moved by their selflessness and sacrifice, Charles-Henri vowed to honor them through his art.
The result was The Age of Heroes, his debut orchestral album dedicated to America’s guardians. This collection of stirring, epic themes captured the courage and higher calling of those who serve. The album resonated deeply, becoming a beacon of support for the Washington State Council of Fire Fighters’ (WSCFF) Benevolent Fund. In 2006, Charles-Henri was personally thanked by Harold Schaitberger, then-president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, at the WSCFF Annual Convention, where he was celebrated as a guest of honor. Later that year, Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire expressed her gratitude for the album’s contributions to her firefighting community.
A pivotal moment came when Fire Marshal Ron Bisold of South King County Fire & Rescue invited Charles-Henri to experience a day in the life of his crew. For Charles-Henri, it was a childhood dream realized—donning firefighting gear, racing to emergencies on fire trucks, and witnessing the raw reality of their world. He felt the exhilaration of lives saved and the crushing sorrow when lives were lost. This immersion deepened his reverence for these everyday heroes.
During this time, a firefighter shared The Firemen’s Prayer with Charles- Henri, saying, “Given the beauty of The Age of Heroes, I know you could create something extraordinary with this.” Upon reading the prayer’s words, Charles-Henri was struck by inspiration. “This is not just a prayer—it’s an anthem!” he exclaimed, humming a melody that poured forth instantly, as if the music had been waiting to be born. The firefighters listened, moved by the promise of what was to come.
In March 2007, exactly two years after his arrival in America, Charles- Henri composed The Firemen’s Prayer. This majestic piece, scored for full orchestra, adult and children’s choruses, and—instinctively—bagpipes, was a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters. When he shared an early version with his friend and Captain of the Redmond Fire Department John Stockman and his crew, the music brought tears to their eyes. “Did you know?” they asked. “Bagpipes are played at our ceremonies and funerals.” Charles-Henri hadn’t known, but the synchronicity confirmed the piece’s destiny.
For years, The Firemen’s Prayer remained in Charles-Henri’s archives, refined but unperformed, as if waiting for the perfect moment. In 2013, he moved to Los Angeles with his American wife, where the city’s reliance on its heroic fire department underscored the piece’s potential impact. Los Angeles, a city of dreams and resilience, is also home to the world’s finest musicians—making it the ideal stage for this anthem.
In 2023, Charles-Henri composed the first official theme for the Make-A-Wish® Foundation, One Wish, collaborating with the Los Angeles Children’s Chorus. This experience reignited his passion for The Firemen’s
Prayer. By November 2024, serious discussions about its performance were underway. Then, in January 2025, the Palisades and Eaton fires devastated Los Angeles. Living just blocks from mandatory evacuation zones, Charles-
Henri and his wife witnessed the unwavering courage of firefighters battling the flames. The urgency became Avelange and Make-A-Wish President Melissa Arias undeniable: the time to bring The Firemen’s Prayer to life is now.
This anthem is more than music—it is a heartfelt “thank you” to the finest among us, a tribute to the men and women who risk everything to protect us. Performed by world-class musicians and choruses, The Firemen’s Prayer will honor Los Angeles’ firefighters and resonate with communities everywhere. It is a call to celebrate their heroism, to share their stories, and to ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten.
We invite you to join us in bringing this powerful tribute to the stage, to create a moment of unity and gratitude that will echo for generations.