But it ultimately decided it was the right call "considering the serious impact on the civilian population of Ukraine caused by the Russian invasion," Ouimet wrote. The orchestra at first declined, saying Malofeev had spoken openly against the invasion. Makivchuk is one of several Ukrainians who asked the OSM to cancel. “I frankly don’t understand why Montreal Ukrainians have to fight this with OSM while we live every minute in anguish for our families in Ukraine,” Mariya Makivchuk told CTV News last week. Some Ukrainian Montrealers had emailed the OSM to ask it to cancel Malofeev's performances, saying it wasn't about his stance on the war but about promoting a Russian product, in this case a "cultural product." Malofeev will no longer be performing on March 9, 10 and 13 in Montreal, though the concerts will still go ahead with different performers. We look forward to welcoming this exceptional artist when the context allows it." "We continue, however, to believe in the importance of maintaining relationships with artists of all nationalities who embrace messages of peace and hope. Malofeev this week," wrote a spokesperson for the orchestra, Pascale Ouimet, in a statement. "The OSM feels that it would be inappropriate to receive Mr.
However, the orchestra maintained its praise for 20-year-old Alexander Malofeev, who has been outspoken against the invasion of Ukraine, where he said he has some family members. A young Russian pianist who was set to perform with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra this week has been struck from the schedule after protest.