US orchestra ends cooperation with Russian violinist Vadim Repin after Ukrainian Embassy urging

Following calls from the Embassy of Ukraine in the United States, the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra (ASO) has ended its cooperation with Russian violinist Vadim Repin. The orchestra said a "mutual decision" was reached, which means two of Repin's concerts in the US will not go ahead.

Source: ASO

Quote: "The ASO and Mr Repin have concluded that the current environment is not conducive to a successful collaboration, nor in the interests of ASO patrons whose unhindered enjoyment of live music is the highest priority."

Details: The Americans added that they "share the desire for an end to the ongoing war that has caused immeasurable suffering and devastation" with the violinist, and noted that they hope to work together in the future. Meanwhile, the ASO did not name the aggressor country, Russia.

Repin will no longer perform Shostakovich's Violin Concerto No. 1, which was scheduled for 6 and 7 November at Maryland Hall. The audience was informed that changes to the programme would be announced later. Purchased tickets remain valid, but can be exchanged for tickets to other performances.

The Embassy of Ukraine in the United States thanked the ASO for its decision not to continue working with the Russian musician.

"Russia has been using cultural diplomacy as part of its soft power to whitewash the image of a country that continues to kill innocent Ukrainians with missile and drone attacks every day.

We are grateful to everyone who helped draw attention to this issue and to the importance of standing with Ukraine as it works to bring a just and lasting peace closer," said Denys Sienik, Chargé d'Affaires of Ukraine in the United States.

Background:

• The Embassy of Ukraine in the United States called on the ASO to cancel Repin's participation in its performances because of his involvement in Russian state initiatives.
• For example, in 2024, the musician performed at a Kremlin concert marking 23 February, the so-called Defender of the Fatherland Day in Russia. In addition, his foundation receives substantial financial support from the Russian presidential foundation.
• Ukraine previously secured the cancellation of Repin's performance in Budapest, where he was due to take part in the opening of the National Philharmonic Orchestra's concert season.
• In January 2026, a theatre in Florence temporarily cancelled performances by Russian artists who openly support Kremlin policies. They included ballerina Svetlana Zakharova and violinist Vadim Repin.
• The Mannheim Philharmonic Orchestra in Germany also ended its cooperation with the Russian musician.

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