Pavlo Petrychenko’s charity concert moves audience at St John the Evangelist, Cambridge

Talented Ukrainian refugee Pavlo Petrychenko, 17, performed a charity concert at St John the Evangelist, Hills Road, Cambridge, last Saturday (May 20).

The Revd James Shakespeare, vicar at the church, said the concert was a “huge success”, attracting more than 100 people, and raising £1,039.51 for UNICEF.

He added that people were “deeply moved” by the music, some of which Pavlo composed, and by his words about fleeing Kyiv after the Russian invasion and his determination to continue his musical career.

Michael Fincham, from St John’s Church, who was in attendance, said: “A superb concert. It was amazing to see such a young person, after the upheaval of having to leave Ukraine and with the pain of seeing his country at war, playing and speaking with such confidence.

“This very well-attended concert featured music by Bach and Beethoven together with several of his own compositions. He also spoke of his sudden need to leave Ukraine and build a new life for himself here in Cambridge.

“His playing was technically accomplished and there was real feeling especially in his playing of his own compositions. I am sure he has a bright future ahead of him pursuing a career in musical composition and performance. Over £1,000 was raised for UNICEF for the support of children in Ukraine.”