Professional Debut Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra

Today I will make my professional debut. I’m very grateful to the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra for giving me this great opportunity.

For almost two years now, there has been war in Ukraine. Countless people fled their home land, leaving behind all their belongings. More than a hundred thousand found shelter in the Netherlands; many of them simply in people's homes.

The Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra also wants to do something for them. Musicians may not have the power to end wars, but we can keep alive the hope for better times and the belief in humanity.

Therefore, as a gesture of solidarity, the Rotterdam Philharmonic has invited thirteen displaced Ukrainian musicians to perform a concert with them. Today they will share the music stand. I will conduct this unique orchestra and Ukrainian pianists Antonii Baryshevskyi and Anna Fedorova performing as soloists in works by Silvestrov, Lunyov, and Chopin.

The proceeds and donations from this concert will go entirely to War Child: No child ever started a war. Yet, almost 230 million children worldwide grow up in war and violence. They feel unsafe, are fearful, aggressive, or afraid to make contact. War Child provides them with psychosocial support, protection, and education. Globally. With music, sports, and play, we help these children process their traumatic experiences. This helps them regain confidence in themselves and others. This is of great importance. Because a child does not belong in war. Never.

This concert is made possible in part by a contribution from the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science, and the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra, with all proceeds and donations going entirely to War Child.

The livestream of the concert will remain available after the concert: https://www.youtube.com/live/wrDkalmGznE?si=53-PLZmU9pGDKCif&t=1271