Back-to-back benefit concerts at Aeolian Hall raised more than $70,000 in support of Ukrainian refugees and those trapped by the ongoing conflict.
More than 600 people attended the Concert for Peace in-person over its two day run at the Old East Village venue last Thursday and Friday. More than 1,000 other people in 30 different countries and every province in Canada viewed the musical fundraiser through a livestream that was made available online.
“During a time when we may lose hope and feel helpless, we must never forget the power of music and community. Through inspiration, solidarity, and generosity we have proven we can make a big difference," said Clark Bryan, the venue's executive and artistic director. "I am so grateful to everyone who made this possible. After two years of terrible stresses, musicians didn’t hesitate to sing out, volunteers and staff worked tirelessly, and Londoners opened their hearts to give.”
The performance was headlined by two-time Juno Award winner Loreena McKennitt and featured more than two dozen other musicians and more than 60 choir members. There was also an installation by Ukrainian artist Anya Romanenko on display both nights. Romanenko attended the event with her three nephews aged 5, 11, and 20. The young men have been living with Romanenko in London since fleeing the Ukraine just days after Russia began its invasion on February 24.
Aeolian Hall already has plans to raise more funds for Ukrainian refugees through an upcoming online auction that will include a guitar signed by all of the performers who took part in the Concert for Peace. As well, the venue will be selling yellow and blue lapel ribbons.
"I think that we are a mighty force when we try to do good things for people. For me, the event speaks to our power as a community to do good in the world," added Bryan.
All money raised is being donated to the Red Cross' humanitarian effort in Ukraine.