Spanish Conductor Félix Ardanaz on Thriving Ukrainian Culture Amidst War

Cultural Resilience in Kyiv

• 🎭 Simple cultural pleasures like comedy shows and theatre have become acts of refuge and resistance for the people of Kyiv.
• 🌍 Despite the ongoing war, citizens are striving for normal routines, attending restaurants, cinemas, and the opera.
• ⚠️ Kyiv residents have adapted to living with a permanent state of danger, including frequent drone alarms and the need to seek shelter.

Conducting 'Carmen' in Wartime Ukraine

• 🎶 Spanish conductor Félix Ardanaz chose to lead a performance of 'Carmen' at the National Opera of Ukraine, seeing it as a symbolic and fitting opera for the times.
• 🏛️ The performance at the National Opera House was completely full, indicating a strong desire for cultural engagement.
• 💔 Ardanaz was struck by the personal involvement and deep emotional connection of the musicians and singers, who performed with immense soul.

The Role of Artists and Musicians

• 🌟 Ukrainian musicians who choose to stay and support the country's cultural scene are considered "real heroes" by Ardanaz.
• 🤝 Ardanaz expresses deep admiration for these musicians, calling the experience of conducting them emotionally moving and a highlight of his musical life.
• 🚀 The conductor plans to return to Ukraine in September for a concert organized by the Spanish embassy, likely dedicated to Spanish composer Manuel De Falla.

Music as a Universal Language

• 💬 Ardanaz emphasizes that art, and especially music, serves as a link between cultures.
• 🌐 Music is a universal language that transcends linguistic barriers, allowing for profound connection and understanding even when musicians do not share common spoken languages.
• ✨ The power of music is demonstrated by its ability to move all cultures and connect people through masterpieces.