Music and Art Ukraine

Music and art in support of Ukrainian refugees 

On August 7, Karen Kaderavek, acclaimed classical cellist, Scott Woolweaver, principal violinist for the Boston Pops, and David James, a local renowned sculptor, will join forces in support of the Sutton Committee for Ukrainian Refugees. Photo by Tony Mason.

By Taylor McClure '
Townships’ Daily News Bits 
CIDI 99.1 FM

Karen Kaderavek, acclaimed classical cellist, Scott Woolweaver, principal violinist for the Boston Pops, and David James, a local renowned sculptor, have joined forces in support of the Sutton Committee for Ukrainian Refugees. The Sutton Committee for Ukrainian Refugees was formed to help Ukrainian families coming to Sutton, and other parts of the Eastern Townships, integrate in their new communities. In collaboration with Association de la culture et du patrimoine d’Abercorn and Centre Culturel Abercorn, Music and Art Ukraine will be taking place at the little Anglican Church in Abercorn on August 7 in support of the committee’s initiatives. 

“This came about as sort of a brain child of a number of people who are on the Sutton Committee for Ukrainian Refugees and there have been a number of fundraising projects that they have been involved in over the last couple of months to help Ukrainian refugees settle in our area,” said Kaderavek. 

Kaderavek mentioned that the group has already helped a family of four and an individual find homes and employment in the region, but more families are expected to make their way here. 

“The need is great. So, I was asked if I would perform at an event and I said, of course. So, I’m bringing up my dear friend and close colleague Scott Woolweaver,” she said. “(…) We’ve been playing together for most of our lives.”

Kaderavek and Woolweaver’s performance will be inspired by the international language of dance. 

“We have composers from the United States, all across Europe, Italy, Spain England, Poland, Romania, and Ukraine. Music whose core essence is dance and we just thought that would be complex, interesting, and joyous idea to use for a concert,” noted Kaderavek. 

After the performance, Music and Art Ukraine will also showcase some of James’ famous sculptures and present a silent auction. 

“Area artisans and businesses have generously donated items for a silent auction. People, after the concert, can views those items and hopefully make a bid. Also, there’s going to be a sculpture garden that people can wander through,” added Kaderavek. “(…) Inside the church, next to Scott and next to me, there will be two of his (James) glass sculptures. I think that’s going be exquisite just for people to enjoy during the concert.” 

Kaderavek said that it was confirmed that some of the Ukrainian’s who have come to the area will be in attendance at the event. 

“They will be there as guests and will be introduced. That’s really nice,” she said. 

As someone who identifies as Slovak and Czech and has travelled within Eastern Europe, Kaderavek explained that she needed to do something in support of those fleeing the war in Ukraine. 

“There’s not always a lot that you can do. I did a radio show dedicated to Ukrainian composers and music back near when the invasion started. I did that, and it helped me feel like I was doing something with my music,” she said. “When this came up, I went ‘oh yeah, I’d love to be able to help in that way.’ Especially Ukrainians who are coming here to the Townships, it’s amazing that we can help support them and get them settled.”

Tickets for Music and Art Ukraine can be found here. 

Editor’s note: Karen Kaderavek is a volunteer contributor at CIDI 99.1 FM. 

Listen to the full interview below: