Message of greeting from Federal President (ret.) Joachim Gauck

Since February 24, 2022, we have all been under the impressions of Russia’s brutal war of occupation against Ukraine. Most of us have considered these war atrocities in the middle of Europe in the 21st century unimaginable. However, an unscrupulous dictator has forced this war on Ukraine, targeting also all free, democratic societies that want to shape their own destiny.

In such difficult times, music can build bridges. Therefore, I am grateful to you, as patron, for organizing this international benefit concert “Concert for Tomorrow” for the benefit of Ukraine. It is particularly touching that the second cello concerto by the famous Ukrainian composer Myroslav Skoryk will be heard. This work was written in 2016 after the annexation of Crimea and dedicated to Oleksandr Piriyev. This very cellist will play the concerto himself, having fled Ukraine with his family two months ago.

The people of Ukraine, who suffer from the war and defend themselves so bravely, and the Ukrainian refugees who seek protection also in our country, need our solidarity and support. With this concert they make possible the reconstruction of the music school in Butscha – a place that has become synonymous with Russian war crimes – and open up a piece of normality for children again.

Erich Kästner once wrote: “There is nothing good, except: you do it”. In this spirit, the two initiators Michael Balke and Olivier Krüger have joined forces with many volunteers and launched the “Concert for tomorrow” project. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for this encouraging sign of solidarity.

Federal President (ret.) Joachim Gauck