The National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine (NSOU), recognised as one of the finest symphony orchestras in Eastern Europe, has announced it will return to the UK for the first time in over 20 years next autumn, with a rich programme featuring Ukrainian composer Lyatoshynsky’s Grazhyna Symphonic Picture, Sibelius’ Finlandia, and Strauss’ Don Juan. Tickets go on sale from Wednesday 19 October 2022 across the 17 venues supporting the tour.
Alexander Hornostai, NSOU Managing Director and Producer, says: “The National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine has been an important part of the country’s culture for over 100 years, and we have been performing and rehearsing in Kiev since we were first established in 1918. Whilst this war has had a dramatic impact on Ukrainian lives, we took the decision early on that we had an important role to play in continuing to perform, in order to protect and showcase Ukrainian musical culture and show that there is more to our country than just the conflict. We are deeply grateful to the UK venues and tour promoters who are working with us to ensure this ambitious tour happens. We can’t wait to return to the UK after more than two decades and have the opportunity to perform to UK audiences all over the country.”
Mary Harrison, Head of UK Touring for IMG Artists, says: “Up until now, Ukrainian culture has been seen as somewhat in Russia’s shadow in the West, with the likes of the Bolshoi, Moscow and St Petersburg orchestras enjoying elite status. This tour is a unique opportunity for Ukrainian musicians to wrestle the spotlight from Russia, with a UK-wide platform to showcase some of Ukraine’s most talented and renowned musicians. We are delighted to be supporting them and working in partnership with all 17 concert venues to ensure an absolute sell-out success.”
As reported by The Guardian, in addition to providing a UK-wide platform for the orchestra to perform, we are also fundraising to support the NSOU and the continuation of Ukraine’s rich musical culture during this conflict. A Just Giving appeal with a target of £24,000 has been set up in collaboration with tour promoters. All proceeds will be donated directly to the orchestra at the end of their tour. Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/nsou-tour-2023
For more information about the tour, as well a full list of tour dates, click here.
