Chopin Mazurkas

Join us for an evening celebrating the legacy of pianist and author Pavel Kushnir. This special concert will take place at the De Waalse Kerk in Amsterdam. Guests will be welcomed with a complimentary drink. The program features the soulful Chopin Mazurkas, performed by three remarkable pianists — Maria Nemtsova, Ekaterina Zhemaitis, and Julia Okruashvili. Their music will be followed by Pavel's interpretations of the mazurkas that he created during his life as part of his Mazurkas on Wednesdays series. Dutch actor Joris Smit, a member of Het National Theater in The Hague, will perform Pavel’s texts on the mazurkas. This inaugural concert serves as the launch for the Pavel Kushnir Memorial Scholarship. 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.