Montreal symphony orchestra cancels Russian pianist’s performances

The Montreal Symphony Orchestra (OSM) has cancelled Russian pianist Alexander Malofeev’s upcoming shows.

The 20-year-old was scheduled to play tonight, tomorrow, and March 13.

This comes after members of the city’s Ukrainian community called for the OSM to follow in the footsteps of the Vancouver Recital Society and cancel the performances, in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Some OSM musicians also said they would refuse to play if Malofeev did.

In a statement, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra said: “Considering the serious impact on the civilian population of Ukraine caused by the Russian invasion, the OSM must announce the withdrawal of pianist Alexander Malofeev from performances of the concert Michael Tilson Thomas: Monumental.”

They go on to say that the OSM feels “it would be inappropriate to receive Mr. Malofeev this week. We continue, however, to believe in the importance of maintaining relationships with artists of all nationalities who embrace messages of peace and hope. We look forward to welcoming this exceptional artist when the context allows it.”

The musical prodigy took to his Facebook page after the decision saying, “Dear Friends, my performances this week with Michael Tilson Thomas and Orchestre symphonique de Montréal – OSM have been canceled. I have already arrived in Montreal. But unfortunately, it is impossible to hold them due to political reasons. I sincerely apologize to the audience.”

READ MORE: Calls for Montreal Symphony Orchestra to cancel Russian pianist’s performance

On Monday, Malofeev wrote: “It is very painful for me to see everything that is happening. I have never seen so much hatred going in all directions, in Russia and around the world. Most of the people with whom I have personally communicated these days are guided by only one feeling – fear.”

The young pianist also said that he was contacted by journalists asking him for a statement, but “I feel very uncomfortable about this and also think that it can affect my family in Russia.”

“I still believe Russian culture and music specifically should not be tarnished by the ongoing tragedy, though it is impossible to stay aside now. Honestly, the only thing I can do now is to pray and cry.”

The OSM also says that they want to “reaffirm its solidarity with the Ukrainian people and will make a donation in support of this community. The Orchestra invites the public to do the same by giving to a recognized organization such as the Red Cross or UNICEF.”