CelloBello to Celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day

The livestream event will feature the video premiere of a newly-commissioned arrangement by Mike Block, performed by cellists from all over the world

In celebration of Ukrainian Independence Day, and in condemnation of Russia's continuing occupation of Ukraine, the online platform for cellists, CelloBello, is hosting an event on August 24, 2022. The date also signifies 6-months from the start of the current war.

The centerpiece of the event is an international collaborative music video featuring cellists from all over the world — including Mike Block (USA), Paul Katz (USA), Zlatomir Fung (USA), Elena Korableva (Russia/USA), Petro Sokach (Ukraine/Norway), and Glib Sasko (Ukraine).

Together, the cellists will perform a newly-commissioned arrangement by Mike Block that includes both a Ukrainian folk song and the country's national anthem. The video will premiere at 12pm EDT on August 24, 2022.

Alongside the video, CelloBello will present a livestreamed conversation with several musicians based in Ukraine, including members of the Kyiv Contemporary Music Days organization. You can view this conversation, as well as other content related to the August 24 event, on CelloBello's YouTube channel.

"CelloBello has become a global community of cellists, musicians and human beings and we prize the world’s rich artistic heritage," said Paul Katz, CelloBello Founder and Artistic Director. "The artists in this video came together to advance the belief that among artists, there are no borders, and to condemn this act of aggression on Ukraine."

"We strive to be a beacon of peace and harmony, and we stand shoulder to shoulder with all musicians, artists, and organizations around the world who share these values," said Executive Director Robert Rund. "Our hearts are broken for the people of Ukraine, and we show our support and embrace them in the best way we know how."

"It means a lot to me as a Russian citizen to be able to show my support for the Ukrainian people," said Elena Korableva, a Russian cellist who is now living in America and participated in the project.

"I just want to bring beauty into the world, and don’t want to be associated with destruction and bringing death. It is very important that I could do this. It is a very small thing I can do, and playing the cello is my voice," she added.