Vadym Yatsenko Addresses Criticism Following His Appointment
Vadym Yatsenko, the newly appointed head of the Hryhorii Veryovka National Academic Ukrainian Folk Choir, has spoken out against the backlash that followed his selection. In his statement, he reflected on the choir’s founder Hryhorii Veryovka and its former leader Anatolii Avdiievskyi, while also emphasizing the importance of academic training for directors and the ensemble’s historical legacy.
The appointment of Yatsenko, a choirmaster and conductor who previously served as chief choirmaster of the Lviv Opera and artistic director of the Lviv Municipal Choir Homine, was made by Ukraine’s Ministry of Culture. Yatsenko noted,
“Were the outstanding leaders of this choir part of that system? Yes. Are they valuable to Ukrainian culture? Undoubtedly, yes.”This underscores his respect for his predecessors and recognition of their contributions to Ukrainian culture.
The Choir’s History and Significance
Hryhorii Veryovka, the choir’s founder, held an academic degree and studied under Yavorsky and Orlov, who represented the Moscow and Saint Petersburg schools. Anatolii Avdiievskyi, who led the choir for 50 years from 1966 to 2016, was a product of the Pihrov Odesa conducting school. Yatsenko emphasized that
“Anatolii Tymofiiovych was even more of an academician than Hryhorii Veryovka.”
During his tenure, Avdiievskyi recruited graduates from conservatories and music colleges, which positively shaped the choir’s development. Yatsenko also referenced the folk opera 'The Fern Flower' by Yevhen Stankovych, one of the choir’s most celebrated works, stating: “I personally thank this decision if only for Stankovych’s Fern Flower, which would never have been written if the choir hadn’t had academic professionals.”
On the third floor of the building on Shevchenko Boulevard, a bust of Veryovka and a photo of Avdiievskyi are displayed, symbolizing their impact on Ukrainian musical culture. Yatsenko plans to study Avdiievskyi’s legacy and the culture surrounding him, aiming to continue the traditions established by his forerunners.
“I could live my best life. ... But I chose history,”Yatsenko said, demonstrating his commitment to exploring and advancing the choir’s heritage.
Yatsenko’s appointment as head of the Hryhorii Veryovka Choir has sparked debate among cultural figures, given the ensemble’s prominent role in Ukrainian musical tradition. Given Yatsenko’s respect for his predecessors and his intent to build on their work, the choir is expected to develop steadily within contemporary cultural trends. Yatsenko has the opportunity not only to preserve but also to enrich the rich musical legacy cultivated by those before him.
In light of the recent changes in leadership, it is important to examine the context surrounding the upcoming transition at the Veryovka Choir. Understanding the Ministry of Culture's decision to replace the previous director may provide insights into the future direction of this esteemed ensemble and its role in preserving Ukrainian cultural heritage.