Musicians recently took to the stage at the National Musician’s Church, Holy Sepulchre, to perform a programme of arts spanning Ukrainian film, symphony and choral music, and poetry in support of the country.
Voice of Ukraine UK, founded by Ukrainian composer Iryna Gould, was created to raise money for the rebuilding of children’s music facilities in Ukraine destroyed by Russian forces, and those who have been orphaned as a result of the conflict. Performers included Ukrainian musicians living in London, as well as artists from across the world wishing to show solidarity with Ukraine.
The newly-formed London Ukrainian Symphony Orchestra and Ukraine Children’s Choir, along with Academy Choir Wimbledon, performed a variety of traditional Ukrainian pieces, including Ridna Matu Moya (My Dear Mother), as well as original compositions from founder Iryna. Ukrainian poet Anastasia Dmytruk performed via video link her poem We Will Never Be Brothers, and special guests Malcolm Goodman MBE, founder of the Royal Air Force Music Charitable Trust, and Professor Nigel Osborne MBE, composer and aid worker, delivered passionate speeches on the importance of the cause, aid work in Ukraine, and the unique power of music to unite likeminded people.
Iryna Gould, founder of Voice of Ukraine UK & London Ukrainian Symphony Orchestra, said:
“The performances were immensely moving, and I hope that the concert has been able to renew awareness of the atrocities that are being committed in my country, and the awful impact this has on the children of Ukraine. With the money raised, we will be able to rebuild the country’s music facilities and, ultimately, rebuild a future for our children. The London Ukrainian Symphony Orchestra, following its debut at Holy Sepulchre, is looking for a sponsor able to support our activities and enable us to continue to raise money and support those affected by the conflict.”
Fr Nick Mottershead, Priest-in-Charge at Holy Sepulchre, added:
“It was an utter privilege to welcome Voice of Ukraine UK to Holy Sepulchre and be shown the power and beauty of Ukrainian music and poetry. Since March last year, Holy Sepulchre has been raising money for the Ukrainian people through things such as weekly concerts by Ukrainian conservatoire students. As the National Musician’s Church, it has been important for us to support musicians who have had their lives turned upside down by the war. We were pleased to be able to make another donation of hygiene products for Ukrainians following the concert, allowing those affected by the war to live in dignity and confidence.”