On November 18, an extraordinary concert featuring two of today’s greatest pianists, Grigory Sokolov and Sergei Babayan, will take place at Salle Cortot in Paris. This event pays tribute to Pavel Kushnir, a talented pianist who tragically died in prison in July 2024, and aims to support the atelier des artistes en exil.
Deeply opposed to the war, Pavel Kushnir relocated to a remote area of Russia’s Far East, near the Chinese border, to escape the pressure of performing at patriotic events. A passionate interpreter of Frédéric Chopin, he devoted the last months of his life to presenting Chopin’s Mazurkas through 51 educational radio broadcasts. For him, these works symbolized resistance against Russian occupation in 19th-century Poland and were an act of artistic defiance. His activism, which included a series of YouTube videos, led to accusations of “terrorist activity” and his imprisonment in May 2024. After enduring two months of violent detention and a hunger strike, Pavel died on July 27, with no official investigation into his death.
The tribute concert will celebrate Pavel Kushnir’s bravery and highlight the solidarity of prominent musicians in the face of injustice. Grigory Sokolov and Sergei Babayan will perform a selection of works by Chopin, Schumann, Schubert, Liszt, and Rachmaninoff.
Tickets are now available, along with a call for donations. All proceeds from ticket sales and fundraising efforts will benefit the atelier des artistes en exil, a Paris-based NGO that supports artists forced into exile due to conflict or political oppression.
This concert serves as a reminder that art transcends borders and challenges, acting as a vital means for freedom and hope. By honoring Pavel’s memory, the event aims to support all artists fighting for their values and liberty.
The concert is organized by the Aùrion Association in collaboration with the record label Little Tribeca, with all proceeds directed to the atelier des artistes en exil.
Related Topics
- M(h)aol Addresses Gendering of the Drum Kit in New Single “Snare”
- Roland Introduces Earth Piano, Integrating 50 Years of Piano Innovation into Your DAW
- Cat Goose Wows Owner with Unexpected Piano Skills
