The Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra has begun its third summer concert tour across Europe and the United States, continuing its mission to defend Ukraine’s artistic heritage through music.
The ensemble, conducted by Kerii-Lynn Wilson, a Canadian conductor of Ukrainian descent, will perform the Ukrainian version of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony to highlight values such as freedom and resistance to Russian aggression.
Formed in 2022 by the Metropolitan Opera in New York and the Grand Theatre National Opera in Warsaw, the orchestra has brought together 74 musicians from Ukraine and beyond, some requiring special permission to participate. The tour’s repertoire includes Beethoven's Ninth Symphony and ‘Lacrimosa’ by Ukrainian composer Viktoria Poleva, commemorating victims of Russian atrocities in Bucha.
Peter Gelb, the General Manager of the Metropolitan Opera, discussed the significance of the orchestra’s formation and tours.
“The orchestra serves as a reminder of what is going on in Ukraine, symbolizing the fight for freedom and democracy,” he said. He highlighted the extraordinary collaboration between the Metropolitan Opera and the Polish National Opera, strengthened by their joint efforts to support Ukraine’s cultural legacy.
Gelb praised the reception of the orchestra globally, noting its political and artistic impact. “It’s a representation of great artistic excellence,” he said, mentioning that Deutsche Grammophon had released the orchestra’s recording of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.
The tour includes performances in significant locations such as Paris, London, and Washington, D.C., emphasizing solidarity with Ukraine. Gelb expressed hope for the orchestra’s future, aiming for it to continue even after the war is won, symbolizing freedom and democracy.
The Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra, under Wilson’s leadership, remains a powerful voice for Ukraine, using music to convey the nation’s struggle and cultural identity to the world. The ensemble’s performances continue to highlight the resilience and spirit of the Ukrainian people amidst ongoing conflict.
Formed in 2022 by the Metropolitan Opera in New York and the Grand Theatre National Opera in Warsaw, the orchestra has brought together 74 musicians from Ukraine and beyond, some requiring special permission to participate. The tour’s repertoire includes Beethoven's Ninth Symphony and ‘Lacrimosa’ by Ukrainian composer Viktoria Poleva, commemorating victims of Russian atrocities in Bucha.
Peter Gelb, the General Manager of the Metropolitan Opera, discussed the significance of the orchestra’s formation and tours.
“The orchestra serves as a reminder of what is going on in Ukraine, symbolizing the fight for freedom and democracy,” he said. He highlighted the extraordinary collaboration between the Metropolitan Opera and the Polish National Opera, strengthened by their joint efforts to support Ukraine’s cultural legacy.
Gelb praised the reception of the orchestra globally, noting its political and artistic impact. “It’s a representation of great artistic excellence,” he said, mentioning that Deutsche Grammophon had released the orchestra’s recording of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.
The tour includes performances in significant locations such as Paris, London, and Washington, D.C., emphasizing solidarity with Ukraine. Gelb expressed hope for the orchestra’s future, aiming for it to continue even after the war is won, symbolizing freedom and democracy.
The Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra, under Wilson’s leadership, remains a powerful voice for Ukraine, using music to convey the nation’s struggle and cultural identity to the world. The ensemble’s performances continue to highlight the resilience and spirit of the Ukrainian people amidst ongoing conflict.
Source: TVP World
More In Culture MORE...
