Keri-Lynn Wilson appointed music director of Kyiv Camerata

Keri-Lynn Wilson has been appointed as the music director of the Kyiv Camerata, a chamber orchestra founded in 1977 by Valery Matyukhin, who passed away last year. This appointment comes at a crucial time as Ukraine faces ongoing challenges due to the Russian invasion. Wilson, a Canadian-Ukrainian conductor, is known for her commitment to promoting Ukrainian culture and identity through music. She previously founded the Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra to support artists affected by the conflict. At 57 years old, Wilson brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having conducted at prestigious venues such as the New York Philharmonic, Berlin’s Staatsoper unter den Linden, and the Metropolitan Opera. Her leadership is expected to enhance the orchestra's mission of performing for Ukrainian audiences and preserving the nation's cultural heritage. In her statement, Wilson emphasized the importance of defending Ukraine's cultural identity against external threats. This reflects a broader commitment among artists and cultural leaders to use their platforms to advocate for Ukraine during these turbulent times. Her appointment is seen as a significant step in continuing the legacy of the Kyiv Camerata while also addressing the current socio-political climate. As Wilson embarks on this new chapter, her debut performances this season at major international venues will likely draw attention to the plight of Ukrainian artists and the resilience of the country's cultural scene. The Kyiv Camerata, under her direction, aims to inspire hope and solidarity through music, reinforcing the vital role of the arts in times of crisis.