While we appreciate the ASO’s decision to cancel its collaboration with Putin’s violinist Vadim Repin, we must point out that it took the orchestra more than five months to reach this conclusion. During that time, the ASO ignored the Arts Against Aggression open letter, a petition with almost 900 signatures, an appeal from the Ukrainian Embassy, countless emails from residents, and concerns raised by the Maryland State Arts Council and the Arts Council of Anne Arundel County regarding the improper use of public funds. Repin’s performances were canceled only after the orchestra was threatened with massive protests inside and outside of Maryland Hall. 

On September 1, the ASO told The Violin Channel that the orchestra had reviewed Vadim Repin’s public record and found no evidence of his personal support for the aggressive policies of the Russian government or its president, and therefore would not cancel his invitation. However, on September 4, it reversed its decision and announced that the orchestra and Vadim Repin “have come to a mutual decision not to proceed with their planned collaboration.” The ASO blamed the “current environment,” which it claimed is not conducive to a successful collaboration, and cited the “interests of ASO patrons whose unhindered enjoyment of live music is the highest priority.”

Unfortunately, the ASO lacked the courage to acknowledge its mistake or apologize to the Ukrainian-American community and the broader public. On the contrary, the ASO expressed hope that a future artistic collaboration with Putin’s violinist may prove possible. Speaking with the Russian news agency NEWS.ru, Vadim Repin noted that the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra (ASO) has already agreed to reschedule his concerts.

Arts Against Aggression wants to make one thing very clear: any attempt to re-invite violinist Vadim Repin—or any artist with ties to the current Russian regime—will be met with massive protests and increased public scrutiny of the ASO and its management.

-Arts Against Aggression