US orchestra cancels collaboration with Russian violinist Vadim Repin after Ukrainian Embassy appeal

Following calls from the Embassy of Ukraine in the United States, the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra (ASO) has cancelled its planned collaboration with Russian violinist Vadim Repin. The orchestra said a "mutual decision" has been reached which means that two performances by Repin 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 ASO added that they and the violinist "share the desire for an end to the ongoing war that has caused immeasurable suffering and devastation" and said they hope to work together in the future. The ASO did not name the aggressor – Russia.

Repin had been due to perform Shostakovich's Violin Concerto No. 1 on 6 and 7 November at Maryland Hall. Patrons have been informed that changes to the programme will be announced later. Tickets that have been purchased remain valid, but they can also be exchanged for tickets to other performances.

The Embassy of Ukraine in the US thanked the ASO for its decision not to go ahead with the collaboration with the Russian musician.

Denys Sienik, Ukraine's Chargé d'Affaires in the US, said: "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."

Background:

• The Embassy of Ukraine in the US had called on the ASO to cancel Repin's performances because of his involvement in Russian state initiatives.
• For example, in 2024, Repin 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 a performance by Repin in Budapest, where he had been due to take part in the opening of the National Philharmonic Orchestra's concert season.
• In January 2026, a theatre in Florence temporarily suspended performances by Russian artists who openly support Kremlin policies, including ballerina Svetlana Zakharova and violinist Vadim Repin.
• The Mannheim Philharmonic Orchestra in Germany has also cancelled a performance by Repin.

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