Rachmaninoff Preludes and Nirvana on piano

Join us for an evening celebrating the legacy of pianist and author Pavel Kushnir. This unique concert will take place at the National Musicians Church (Holy Sepulchre) with doors opening at 6:30 PM and the concert beginning at 7:00 PM. Guests will be welcomed with a complimentary drink.

The program features an unusual mixture of Rachmaninoff Preludes and Nirvana, all performed on the piano by four remarkable musicians - Maya Irgalina, Elena Toponogova, Mikhail Shilyaev and Sasha Grynyuk. Their music will be interspersed with fragments from Pavel's book 'Russian cut-up' and his interviews. This eclectic mix reflects Pavel's own tendency to juxtaposition what at first glance might seem incompatible.

This is our second concert series in support of Pavel Kushnir Memorial Scholarship with performances also taking place in Berlin, Paris, Amsterdam and Tel Aviv. Established by artists, musicians, and creators, this scholarship aims to support students from Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus in pursuing their musical studies at leading institutions worldwide. All proceeds from this concert will contribute to establishing these scholarships, and additional donations are warmly welcomed.

Pavel Kushnir was a pianist and author, and the creative force behind the radio series Mazurkas on Wednesdays. In July 2024, he tragically died in detention as a result of a hunger strike, after speaking out against Russia's war in Ukraine. He leaves behind a legacy of courage and resolve, and this scholarship will carry forward his vision by helping aspiring musicians achieve their dreams.

By attending, you are supporting this mission of resilience and dedication to music. Together, let us ensure that young musicians have opportunities to study and practice their music in freedom.