Alexander Vavilov, violist, co-artistic director, and co-founder of the Sheffield Chamber Players, writes to reflect on our Music for Ukraine fundraising event on April 10:

The event in support of Ukraine at Temple Beth Elohim was incredibly memorable and meaningful for everyone involved. At times like these it is so important for all of us, audience and performers alike, to have a chance to pause, reflect, and share in a communal setting. Two weeks ago, we had a chance to do just that with music and with words. This was also one of the very first times I had a chance to reflect on the events in Ukraine from a personal perspective, which was very important to me personally. In addition, our performance at the temple raised a very substantial sum, which will make a lot of difference to the organizations we fundraised for and, ultimately, to Ukrainian people.

I wanted to make sure I express my gratitude for your generosity in making this event possible! I also want to thank you for dedicating 50% of these proceeds to the Relief Fund for Ukrainian Musicians. The fund received almost $8000 and as a result enabled us to substantially help 15 Ukrainian musicians from Kharkiv and Mariupol regions. As the only Ukrainian speaker in the fund organization, I am the one who also contacts these musicians upon grant dispersion, and I can testify to the tremendous amount of difference this support makes in their lives at this crucial time when so many of them suffered so much loss. They receive this support with endless gratitude, which I wanted to make sure I also convey to you.

Thank you so much again for making all of this possible!

Sincerely,

Alexander Vavilov