Hirofumi Yoshida, an internationally active conductor, is calling for support through crowdfunding by inviting an orchestra from Ukraine, which continues to be invaded by Russia's military, to Japan and giving them an opportunity to learn about Ukraine through performances.
Mr. Yoshida, who planned the crowdfunding campaign, has been serving as principal guest conductor at an opera house in Odesa, southern Ukraine, for the past three years.
The Odesa Opera Theater temporarily suspended performances due to the Russian military invasion, but it reopened in June of the year before and continues to perform opera, ballet, and other performances despite the difficult operating conditions.
Last September, Mr. Yoshida visited the Opera House and conducted an opera in order to encourage the people of Ukraine through music.
Based on that experience, I started a crowdfunding campaign on the 15th of this month to invite the opera house's orchestra to Japan for a performance.
Donations will be accepted until the end of next month, and the final goal is 30 million yen, which will be used to cover travel expenses for approximately 80 orchestra members and concert venue usage fees.
Mr. Yoshida said, ``It's almost two years since the military invasion, but the people of Ukraine are working hard without losing hope. We will share our emotions through music with the musicians of Odesa, and let the people of Japan know about the situation in Ukraine.'' I would like you to know even a little bit about it.''