Concert “Prayer for Ukraine”

On 23 March at 7:00 pm, within the historic walls of St John the Baptist Church in London, the 2026 season of Kyiv Art Sessions will be inaugurated with the concert “Prayer for Ukraine”.
The programme will be performed by the legendary Chamber Choir “Kyiv” under the baton of Mykola Hobdych – an ensemble distinguished by exceptional professionalism and profound musical sensitivity.
Beneath the soaring vaults and in the quiet radiance of a church that has become a symbol of steadfast and unwavering support for Ukraine, the music of Ukrainian composers will resound as a voice of memory, faith and hope.
The evening brings together works by eminent Ukrainian composers whose names have become synonymous with the nation’s cultural identity:· Yevhen Stankovych, embodying epic power and deep national roots;· Hanna Havrylets, whose music reflects luminous spirituality and inner purity of tradition;· Victoria Poleva, representing contemplative refinement and a distinctly modern spiritual language;· Valentyn Silvestrov, whose compositions unfold as a space for philosophical remembrance and lyrical tenderness, echoing through time; and· Myroslav Skoryk, the melodic voice of Ukraine, recognised internationally and cherished by audiences worldwide, touching every heart.
The programmeYevhen Stankovych O Lord, Our Sovereign (Psalm 8)
Hanna Havrylets Three Sacred Chants:In God Alone (Psalm 61)Cherubic HymnHear, O Lord, My Prayer (Psalm 142)
Victoria Poleva Liturgical Diptych:I Believe Save Us, O Lord
Valentyn Silvestrov Triptych on Poems by Taras Shevchenko:The Cherry Orchard by the HouseMy ThoughtsOn the Renewed Earth
Myroslav Skoryk Melody
Valentyn Silvestrov Prayer for Ukraine
This event marks not only the opening of a new season, but also a collective prayer for Ukraine, sounding at the heart of London.
The concert is charitable in purpose: all proceeds will be donated to the Voices of Children Foundation, which supports children affected by the war in Ukraine.
The event is presented with the support of the Embassy of Ukraine in the United Kingdom and in partnership with St John the Baptist Church.
Admission is by charitable donation from £10.
Contributions may be made via Eventbrite or at the venue before the concert.