Ukrainian violinist organises concert in Aberdeen to help her home country

A Ukrainian woman who lives in Aberdeen has helped organise a concert to raise money for humanitarian aid in her home country.

Nataliia Naismith still has family living in the war-stricken country, including her mother, who is staying in a village just outside Kyiv.

Aberdeen Instrumental Music Service, who Nataliia plays for, are hosting the concert at Fraserburgh South Church on Saturday evening.

Gareth John, conductor of Aberdeen City Orchestra, has also helped Nataliia organise the concert that includes classical pieces from Mozart, Bach and Strauss.

Speaking to Northsound, Nataliia says every penny that they can raise will make a difference.

"All the help from all over world, each single penny, means a lot and can change a lot.

"We're all doing what we can - Ukrainians plus the countries that we live in, because I do feel great support here."

Nataliia's mother was teaching piano lessons just two months ago, before Russia's invasion. She says that she's been able to find peace through playing.

"When I play music I'm able to bring peace to my soul, and I hope people who come to the concert will be able to get closer to Ukraine.

"We will have a Ukrainian anthem and some traditional songs from Ukraine (at the concert), we will have lighter music as well, but I think it will help people feel closer to Ukraine.

"I know for a fact that music does help me and it does help musicians in Ukraine who are playing, and keep playing."

Tickets are £10 (children are free) and are available at the door and from Maitland’s Furniture & Homestore, Peartree Coffee House & Bistro and R&S Dyga’s Newsagent, 51 Broad Street, Fraserburgh.

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