Russia’s war against Ukraine profoundly changed the Ukrainian music industry. In the beginning of the invasion, it seemed impossible to organize concerts or festivals during Russia’s war against the country. But Ukrainians proved everyone wrong – and found creative ways to experience music in public despite the war. For the first time since the start of the full scale invasion, the Atlas Music festival took place in July 2024. The previous installment attracted more than 600 000 visitors in 2021. Although on a much smaller scale this year, the festival was still the biggest music event that took place amidst the war. Vlad Yaremchuk, the programming director of the festival, shares his unique experience. The full-time music lover and DJ has been confronted with challenges that people living outside of Ukraine can hardly imagine. In wartime, concerts and festivals are not a business venture, says Yaremchuk. They serve another purpose: To unite people. He shares his experience of organizing evacuation plans and rescheduling the whole festival for one week after a Russian attack on Kyiv. In the end, Yaremchuk and and his team overcame all obstacles to bring music to the people.

Resources:
Vlad on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.kind_/
Vlad on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arachnoise
Atlas Festival: https://atlasfestival.com/en
Music Saves Ukraine: https://musicsavesua.com/

Connect with Luzia through Instagram, LinkedIn or visit luziatschirky.ch.

Have you already ordered Luzia's book about her experience reporting from Ukraine?