Solidarity with Ukraine
Music promoters in Switzerland are also reacting to the Russian government's brutal actions against Ukraine. Three reactions from today, Monday, February 28.
TheTonhalle Society Zurich is organizing a benefit concert for the war-wounded Ukrainian population. All artists waive their fees. The ticket proceeds will go to Swiss Solidarity. The concert on March 23 with works by John Adams and the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto in E minor (soloist: Leonidas Kavakos) will be conducted by Music Director Paavo Järvi. In its press release, the Tonhalle Orchestra writes: "We categorically condemn the barbaric actions of the Russian government against the independent Ukraine." We must all support each other. "We stand in solidarity with Ukraine."
The Verbier Festival announces on February 28 "first changes to express its dismay and condemnation of the Russian invasion of Ukraine." The resignation of Valery Gergiev as music director was "demanded and implemented". Donations from sanctioned individuals will be repaid and artists in solidarity with the Russian government will not perform in public.
The Lucerne Festival has canceled the concerts on August 21 and 22 with the Mariinsky Orchestra and Valery Gergiev. Artistic Director Michael Haefliger commented on February 28: "In view of Russia's acts of war in violation of international law, we are sending a clear signal of solidarity for the people of Ukraine. We are deeply saddened and condemn the attack on Ukraine and innocent people in the strongest possible terms"
