Veryovka Choir: Performing at Major Events
The Veryovka Choir, a renowned Ukrainian ensemble, recently performed at several high-profile events, including the wedding of Ihor Kolomoisky's daughter, Anzhelika Kolomoiska, held in Israel, as well as the birthday celebration of Ukraine's first president, Leonid Kravchuk. The choir's director, Ihor Kuryliv, shared details about these performances and emphasized that the group refrains from participating in political events.
Performances and Cultural Outreach
Anzhelika Kolomoiska's wedding took place in April 2011 in the city of Eilat, on the Red Sea coast. At this event, the choir performed exclusively Ukrainian songs. Ihor Kuryliv stated:
“We flew to Israel for Ihor Kolomoisky's daughter's wedding. The men and women sang only Ukrainian songs.” – Ihor Kuryliv
Additionally, in May, the Veryovka Choir performed at the Israeli embassy, singing the national anthems of both Israel and Ukraine. Ihor Kuryliv also noted that Israel’s ambassador to Ukraine, Michael Brodsky, was impressed by the performance:
“Michael Brodsky was absolutely delighted with the choir. But his term ends in August, and he will be leaving his post.” – Ihor Kuryliv
Other events where the Veryovka Choir performed included:
- Leonid Kravchuk’s birthday celebrations,
- events honoring Heorhiy Kirpa, the former Minister of Transport and Communications of Ukraine, who passed away in 2004.
Ihor Kuryliv remarked: “We also performed at Leonid Kravchuk’s birthday. The late Heorhiy Kirpa and his wife were very fond of the choir.”
The cost of a quintet performance at a corporate event is 50,000 hryvnias. The minimum ensemble size for a performance is 18–20 members, and the orchestra can include up to 14 musicians. Ihor Kuryliv commented: “50,000 hryvnias for a quintet performance is a very modest fee.”
He also stated that the choir refuses to take part in political campaigns, emphasizing: “I turn down many things. I have strictly forbidden the ensemble from participating in election campaigns and similar activities. We are a national ensemble and have nothing to do with politics.”
The Veryovka Choir continues to actively perform at various events, promoting Ukrainian culture and traditions while remaining apolitical, focusing solely on the arts.
By taking part in notable cultural occasions such as weddings and birthdays, the Veryovka Choir plays a key role in showcasing Ukrainian culture on an international stage. Its refusal to engage in political events underscores its position as a national cultural symbol, dedicated to keeping art free from political influence. This stance is particularly relevant in supporting Ukraine’s cultural heritage amid contemporary challenges.
In addition to their recent performances, the Veryovka Choir has faced significant challenges, particularly regarding their Russian counterparts. As the geopolitical landscape shifts, the choir's director, Ihor Kuryliv, has noted a stark silence from their Russian colleagues since the events of February 24. This situation underscores the cultural impact of current events and the choir's commitment to maintaining artistic integrity. For further insights into this evolving dynamic, read more about the director's reflections on the silence of Russian musicians.