A New Chapter for Vadym Yatsenko
Conductor Vadym Yatsenko has stepped down from his position at the Lviv National Opera to lead the renowned Hryhoriy Veryovka National Academic Ukrainian Folk Choir. In 2025, he was awarded the title of Honored Artist of Ukraine.
Yatsenko expressed gratitude to Vasyl Vovkun, the general director and artistic director of the Lviv National Opera, for the support and opportunities he received during his time at the theater. In his farewell speech, Yatsenko reflected on his memories, including an office decorated with posters of rock bands and footballers, along with a phrase from the band Kurhan i Agregat:
“I’ll never forget my trendiest office in the theater—covered in posters of the coolest rock bands and footballers, with the legendary words of Kurhan i Agregat on the way out. And the couch I bought for 700 hryvnias so that people fleeing to Lviv at the start of the war would have a place to sleep,” Yatsenko said.
Embracing New Challenges
After leaving the Lviv National Opera, Yatsenko has taken over as the head of the Hryhoriy Veryovka National Academic Ukrainian Folk Choir. In his new role, he emphasized the importance of unlocking the choir’s potential and launching fresh concert projects.
“This is the country’s leading musical ensemble, with an unmatched level of recognition and artistic authority. My goal is to build on that potential, broaden the choir’s activities, create new concert initiatives, and open up new stages both in Ukraine and abroad. This will ensure the choir remains a symbol of Ukrainian musical culture and moves forward with confidence,” Yatsenko stressed.
Yatsenko also noted that, despite leaving the theater, it will always hold a special place in his heart:
“I’m leaving the theater, but now the theater will never leave me. I love you all! No tears. I’ll be back to check on you!”
In this way, Yatsenko continues his musical journey in a new capacity, aiming to elevate Ukrainian culture to new heights.
By departing from the Lviv National Opera, Yatsenko is stepping into a pivotal role that could significantly shape the future of Ukrainian music. His appointment to the Hryhoriy Veryovka National Academic Ukrainian Folk Choir opens up opportunities for innovative concert projects and expanded outreach. This move highlights the dynamic evolution of Ukrainian art and a commitment to preserving cultural heritage amid contemporary challenges.
As Vadym Yatsenko embarks on this new journey with the Hryhoriy Veryovka Choir, it’s worth noting the significant transition in leadership at the Lviv National Opera. The recent appointment of a former choirmaster to lead such a prestigious ensemble highlights the ongoing evolution within Ukraine's cultural landscape. For a deeper insight into this change and its implications, you can read more about the new leadership at Ukraine's Veryovka National Choir.