Cornell University in Ithaca, New York hosted the event “Voices of Resilience” – the first joint initiative of the Ukrainian Classical Voice Project (UCVP) and Cornell University, dedicated to Ukrainian music, cultural memory and the power of art in times of war.
This was reported by the Ukrainian Classical Voice Project and Cornell University.
The event was organized by the Ukrainian Classical Voice Project in partnership with the Mario Einaudi Center for International Studies with support from the Institute for European Studies and the Department of Global Development.
The event took place on May 2 at the Alice Statler Auditorium – one of Cornell University’s most famous concert spaces, known for its chamber atmosphere and exceptional acoustics.
“Voices of Resilience” took place in a lecture-recital format, combining opera performances, academic reflections and living stories.
The program included eight musical performances interspersed with short thematic lectures on the role of music as an instrument of peace, solidarity, and cultural memory. Speakers included Dr. Floyd Al-Rénier Ricketts, Cornell University Ukrainian and Russian language instructor Krystyna Golovakova, Cornell University students Zilala Mamat and Seth Vieira, Shenendehowa High School student Valeriia Povyshyeva, and UCVP founder Irina Petrik, who addressed the themes of cultural memory, peace, war,
“This is more than a musical evening – it is an exploration of resilience, dialogue, and the power of the human voice,” the organizers emphasized.
The program focused on works by Ukrainian composers, including little-known and underrepresented authors whose voices and stories have often been overlooked by international audiences.
The audience was introduced to Ukrainian classical music as a living archive of historical memory, poetry, identity, and human experience, performed by musicians and performers from various artistic and academic backgrounds. Performers included pianist Michael Clement, soprano and bandura player Teryn Kuzma, singer and songwriter Kayla Carpenter, soprano Cadence Weaver-Deering, and tenors Adam Juggernauth and Casey Gray.
Also joining the program were Cornell University students Lauren Chuta (Global Development and Communications), Mira DeGregory (Global Development), Anna Cecilia Fierro (American Studies and Government), Sophia Holubowski (Information Science), and the brother and sister duo Arya and Niam Parikh.
Organizers emphasized that the collaboration between UCVP and Cornell University has become an important example of combining art, science, and international dialogue. The Mario Einaudi Center for International Studies joined the project as a platform for interdisciplinary research and global engagement. The Institute for European Studies provided an academic context for understanding the intersection of culture, history, politics, and art. At the same time, the Ukrainian Classical Voice Project presented the Ukrainian classical tradition as an important component of the world’s cultural heritage.
“UCVP preserves and enhances Ukrainian classical voices, transforming each performance into a bridge between heritage, academic knowledge, and social impact,” the organizers noted.
One of the main themes of “Voices of Resilience” was the role of art in times of war, displacement, and loss. Through music, poetry, and personal stories, participants addressed themes of cultural memory, migration and solidarity, human dignity, and voices that have historically remained unheard.
“Together, we honor the experiences of those affected by conflict, censorship, and cultural erasure, while affirming the important role of artistic collaboration in building global understanding, compassion, and hope,” the organizers said in a statement.
The organizers emphasized that “Voices of Resilience” has become not only a cultural event, but also a platform for international dialogue and reflection on the role of art in the modern world.
“Through this powerful initiative, we are reminded of the depth, beauty, and resilience of Ukraine’s musical heritage. This work is not about music. It is about identity, memory, and the preservation of a culture that continues to inspire,” said representatives of the Together for Ukraine Foundation.
The event concluded with a joint discussion on the importance of cultural diplomacy and the role of creative collaboration in shaping a more just and peaceful future.
Photo: Ukrainian Classical Voice Project
Author: Inna Mikhno