US orchestra ends cooperation with Russian violinist Vadim Repin after Ukrainian Embassy appeal

The Annapolis Symphony Orchestra has ended its cooperation with Russian violinist Vadim Repin after the Embassy of Ukraine in the United States urged it to cancel his participation.

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The ASO and Mr Repin have concluded that the current environment is not conducive to a successful collaboration, nor in the interests of ASO patrons whose unhindered enjoyment of live music is the highest priority.

The orchestra said it and Repin had reached a “mutual decision,” meaning that his two concerts at Maryland Hall, scheduled for Nov. 6 and 7, will not go ahead. Repin had been due to perform Shostakovich’s Violin Concerto No. 1. The orchestra said it would announce later changes to the programme. Existing tickets remain valid, though holders may exchange them for other performances.

The ASO said “the current environment is not conducive to a successful collaboration, nor in the interests of ASO patrons whose unhindered enjoyment of live music is the highest priority.” It also said it shared with Repin a desire for an end to the ongoing war that had caused immeasurable suffering and devastation, and expressed hope that they could work together in the future.

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We share the desire for an end to the ongoing war that has caused immeasurable suffering and devastation.

Ukraine’s embassy thanked the orchestra. Denys Sienik, Ukraine’s chargé d’affaires in the United States, said Russia had been using cultural diplomacy as part of its soft power to whitewash the image of a country that continues to kill Ukrainians with missile and drone attacks. He thanked those who had highlighted the issue and the importance of supporting Ukraine’s effort to bring about a just and lasting peace.

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Russia has been using cultural diplomacy as part of its soft power to whitewash the image of a country that continues to kill innocent Ukrainians with missile and drone attacks every day.

The embassy had cited Repin’s participation in Russian state initiatives, including a 2024 Kremlin concert marking Defender of the Fatherland Day. The article also said his foundation receives substantial financial support from the Russian presidential foundation. Repin’s performances had previously been cancelled in Budapest and temporarily in Florence, while the Mannheim Philharmonic Orchestra also ended its cooperation with him.

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We are grateful to everyone who helped draw attention to this issue and to the importance of standing with Ukraine as it works to bring a just and lasting peace closer.