National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine

We are delighted to welcome one of Eastern Europe’s finest orchestras on its biggest ever UK tour, supporting the continuation of the rich musical culture in Ukraine.

Boris Lyatoshynsky is regarded as the father of modern Ukrainian music, and Grazhyna is one of his best works, based on a poem about a fierce princess who leads her people in battle. Bruch’s most popular violin concerto is one of the wonders of the violin repertoire, with an endless flow of heartfelt melody which is unsurpassed. Strauss’ exhilarating Don Juan was the first big success of his career, a bold and dashing work which proceeds at full throttle before evaporating in an enigmatically dark conclusion. The concert ends with Liszt’s symphonic poem, based on the story of the nobleman Mazeppa punished for an illicit affair by being tied to a wild horse which gallops relentlessly across the Ukrainian countryside.

The National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine was formed by Ukraine’s Council of Ministers in 1918. The 98 strong orchestra has achieved world wide recognition through its many international tours, which include Australia, the US, Europe and Asia.

In addition to providing a UK wide platform for the orchestra to perform, this 2023 tour is also fundraising to support the NSOU and the continuation of Ukraine’s musical culture during this conflict. A Just Giving appeal with a target of £24,000 has been set up by the tour promoters, IMG Artists. All proceeds will be donated directly to the orchestra at the end of their tour.

Join us to show solidarity with the people of Ukraine during this conflict.