To show solidarity with the people of Ukraine and celebrate the country’s rich heritage and identity, the Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale performed the Ukraine national anthem during two concerts at the Alberta Bair Theater on March 12 & 13, 2022.

“The Billings Symphony as an organization stands for peace and wants to honor all who are suffering the consequences of the Russian invasion in Ukraine,” said Ignacio Barrón Viela, executive director of the Billings Symphony.

With this performance, the Billings Symphony stands with orchestras across the globe that are showing solidarity for the people of Ukraine in performing Shche ne vmerla Ukrainy i slava, i volia, translated as, “The glory and freedom of Ukraine has not yet perished.”

Watch now >> Billings Symphony performs the Ukraine national anthem

Lithuanians protesting the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Photo courtesy Dovile Ramoskaite (source: Unsplash)

“Music at its core stands for humanity, peace, freedom of expression, and for coming together above personal difference,” writes the League of American Orchestras. “As a sector we will continue to use our voice and our art to stand up for dignity and safety in the face of oppression.”

May music be a comfort in uniting us for peace and a reminder that we all speak a universal language through music.

Here are a few ways you can help support the Ukrainian Humanitarian Fund and other verified nonprofit humanitarian organizations from the League of American Orchestras.