From a special correspondent:
An infant in the upper balcony started to cry softly during the last bars of Ukranian composer Valentyn Silvestrov’s Prayer for the Ukraine, expressing the poignancy of his prayer and the purpose of this concert. This was a packed benefit performance for the Children and Youth of Ukraine at Carnegie Hall on Wednesday, October 23, raising over $200.000 for the aid organisation Direct Relief.
Anne Sophie Mutter’s rendering of John Williams’ Theme from Schindler’s List and Across the Stars (Love Theme) carried through the plaintive mood. After intermission, Christoph Eschenbach conducted Beethoven’s 9 th symphony with Ukrainian singers Olga Kulchynska, Soprano and Vladyslav Buialskyi, Bass-Baritone, and Emily D’Angelo, Mezzo-Soprano and Matthew Polenzani, tenor. The Orchestra of St. Luke’s was joined by 14 young musicians from as many countries. The Oratorio Society of New York supplied 140 voices for the chorus.
The funds raised go to Direct Relief, an organization active since 1948 in providing medicine and supplies to children and families in crisis areas. The evening was moderated by the actor Liev Schreiber, who in turn introduced Sir Clive Gillinson, Carnegie Hall’s Executive and Artistic Director and and a video message from Ukrainian First Lady Zelenska. Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations H.E. Mr. Sergiy Kyslytsya said, “This concert at Carnegie Hall is far more than a musical performance; it is a powerful symbol of resilience, hope and the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people. In the midst of the darkness of war, music transcends borders and unites us all in the universal language of peace and solidarity to support the children and youth of Ukraine. We are profoundly grateful to our friends and allies who stand by us during these challenging times. Your support is a source of strength and inspiration, and through this concert, we express our deepest appreciation. Together we celebrate our bonds of friendship and share our unwavering commitment to a future where peace and harmony prevail.”
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