For almost two years now, war is raging in Ukraine. Countless civilians have fled their country, leaving behind everything they have. More that a hundred thousand have found refuge in the Netherlands; many of whom are hosted in the homes of those volunteering to do so. The Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra wants to give a helping hand as well. Musicians may not have the power to end a war, but music can keep the hope for a better day, and the believe in humanity and solidarity alive.

Therefore, as a gesture of solidarity, we invited thirteen Ukranian musicians that have fled to come and give a concert together. On Saturday 13 January, they will share the music stand with the members of our orchestra. The young Ukainian supertalent Olha Dondyk joins as a conductor, Ukranian pianists Antonii Baryshevskyi and Anna Fedorova will play in works by Silvestrov and Chopin.

‘Music matters,’ says Anna Fedorova. ‘Music makes you feel what you are willing to fight for, it gives us perspective, and that is something very powerful.’ As a concert visitor, your presence would strengthen this feeling even more.