Elgin Symphony Orchestra to honor Ukraine in upcoming concert

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra will present The Chicago Bandura Ensemble in a concert to honor Ukraine, three years after the country was invaded by Russia.

“Melodies of Resilience” will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23 at Journey of Hope United Methodist Church, 37W040 W. Highland Ave. in Elgin, to recognize the resilience and culture of the Ukrainian people, according to a news release.

Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for students, and are available at ElginSymphony.org or by calling the ESO Box Office at 847-888-4000. Box office hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

With a centuries old and storied history, the bandura is the instrument that most deeply resonates with the voice and soul of Ukraine. A traditional Ukrainian stringed instrument, it gracefully blends elements of the zither and the lute. The bandura’s development closely reflects the history of the Ukrainian nation and is considered to be the national instrument of Ukraine, according to the release.

“The ESO Presents series showcases a variety of live small-ensemble music experiences,” said Marc Thayer, CEO, of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. “We are honored to bring The Chicago Bandura Ensemble to share the musical and cultural history of Ukraine with our community.”

The all-female Chicago Bandura Ensemble includes Motria Poshyvanyk Caudill, Alina Chemerys, Vera Ivantsiv, Lesya Klimchenko, Yana Matsevych, Khrystyna Musiy, and Oksana Rodak, who will share their talents in a concert that honors the resilience of the Ukrainian people through the power of music.