| Friday 09 October 2026 | 19:30 |
| Programme to include: | ||
| Works by Britten, Benjamin (1913-1976) | ||
| Works by Dove, Jonathan (b. 1959) | ||
| Works by Arakelyan, Kristina (b. 1994) | ||
| Works by Whittaker, John (b. 1952) | ||
| Works by Nyzhankivsky, Nestor (1893-1940) | ||
| Works by Filtz, Bohdana (b. 1932) | ||
| Works by Shamo, Ihor (1925-1982) |
| Anna Starushkevych | Mezzo-soprano |
| Gavin Roberts | Fortepiano |
Music To The Rescue is a recital that brings together music, storytelling and humanitarian purpose in support of Ukraine. Created and led by Ukrainian-British mezzo-soprano Anna Starshkevych, the programme forms part of the work of the UK-registered non-profit Music Will Save The World. Anna is joined on the piano by Song in the City Artistic Director Gavin Roberts who will also perform some Ukrainian piano music. Anna and Gavin are both alumni of The Guildhall School , just across the lake from St Giles Cripplegate, where this event takes place.
Throughout the recital, Anna Starushkevych shares brief reflections and historical insights into Ukraine’s cultural heritage, offering audiences a deeper connection to the country whose people continue to fight for their lives, freedom, and future.
In the face of war, Music To The Rescue stands as a quiet act of artistic defiance — a reminder that beauty, dignity and hope endure even in the darkest times. The programme features songs and piano solos by British and Ukrainian composers, including works by Britten, Jonathan Dove, Kristina Arakelyan and John Whittaker, alongside music by the Ukrainian composers Nyzhankivsky, Filtz and Shamo.
The project raises funds for UAid International a charitable organisation that provides urgently needed medical equipment to Ukraine and helps save lives.
The evening will conclude with a showing of the short film Magura dedicated to the missing people of war. Produced by Music Will Save The World for its Opera Is Us project.
