Cherkasy Regional Philharmonic

Cherkasy Regional Philharmonic: One of the Main Cultural Centers of Central Ukraine

The Cherkasy Regional Philharmonic has been a true gem of the region's and Ukraine's artistic life since June 1, 1955. The cultural institution is located in the center of Cherkasy at 196 Khreshchatyk Street. It is named after the prominent Ukrainian figure Oleksandr Koshyts – a choral conductor, composer and ethnographer.

For seven decades, the Philharmonic has introduced Ukraine and the world to the names of talented artists.

History of the Institution

The complex of buildings belonging to the Cherkasy Regional Philharmonic has an interesting history dating back to the pre-revolutionary period. Once, a two-story building stood on this site, combining the functions of an inn and a kind of motel. It was mainly used by residents of the Left Bank who came to Cherkasy to trade at the nearby market, located on the site of today's Soborna Square. The site retained its practical purpose for a long time: horses and carts were kept here, while visitors could rest before the morning market. It is no coincidence that even in the early 1950s, the square was officially called Bazarna.

Just two years after its establishment, the institution began to develop. The Cherkasy Folk Choir was founded at the Philharmonic. In 1960 and 1964, respectively, the VIA «Cheerful Voices» and the VIA «Melodies of Youth» began their work. Two music lecture halls were dedicated to popularizing the best examples of folk and classical art. In 1975, the VIA «Kalyna» was established.

The expansion of the creative space continued. Newly established ensembles took to the stage, with People's and Honored Artists of Ukraine among their members.

Architectural Features and Hall Capacity

Today, the Philharmonic attracts attention with its ceremonial architecture. Its facade is recognizable by a massive four-column Corinthian portico, while the interior creates the atmosphere of a true temple of art. The spacious auditorium makes a particularly strong impression with its excellent acoustic properties, elegant stucco decoration, magnificent chandeliers and wall paintings.

In the 2000s, the building underwent a major reconstruction: the stage's technical equipment was significantly upgraded, while the ceremonial character and distinctive style of the building were preserved. The concert hall, designed for 800 spectators, is distinguished by its spaciousness and acoustic capabilities, creating comfortable conditions for experiencing music and performing arts.

Philharmonic Ensemble

Preserving the traditions of academic and folk musical culture, the Cherkasy Regional Philharmonic performs an important educational mission and remains one of the key centers of the region's cultural life. Well-known creative ensembles worked here in different years. In particular, from 1988 to 2008, the Philharmonic was represented by the bandura trio «Verbena». In 2012, a symphony orchestra under the direction of Honored Artist of Ukraine Oleksandr Diachenko began its work, and in 2017 the ensemble received academic status.

Today, the Philharmonic's creative life is shaped by artists, musicians and specialists who develop academic and folk art and represent the Cherkasy region far beyond its borders:

• Cherkasy Academic Honored Ukrainian Folk Choir, a laureate of the Taras Shevchenko National Prize of Ukraine;
• Academic Symphony Orchestra;
• Folk Music Ensemble «Rosava»;
• Vocal Trio «Ariana»;
• Stage Band «Paraleli»;
• Vocal Trio «Oberezhno: Haryache!».

Concertmasters and masters of piano performance play an important role in concert activities, including Honored Artist of Ukraine Olena Bielkina and Maryna Romanenko. Concert programmes are presented by Anna Kurylenko and symphony orchestra lecturer and musicologist Tetiana Huk.

Repertoire

The repertoire of the Cherkasy Regional Philharmonic brings together various areas of musical art – from world classics to programmes based on the richness of Ukrainian folk culture. Performances by academic ensembles, including the Cherkasy Honored Ukrainian Folk Choir and the small symphony orchestra, occupy a significant place in the programme. Well-known classical works, instrumental music and Ukrainian folk songs are performed here, receiving new interpretations on stage.

What Events Take Place at the Cherkasy Philharmonic

The Cherkasy Regional Philharmonic has long become one of the city's main concert venues. Touring performances and events spanning a wide variety of genres regularly take place on its stage:

• concerts by pop artists;
• theatrical performances;
• symphonic shows and tribute concerts;
• stand-up comedy evenings and more.

Thanks to this, the institution's programme can interest admirers of academic art, Ukrainian musical heritage and contemporary spectacular productions. This diversity allows the Philharmonic to remain a vibrant cultural space where history, tradition and modernity meet.

How to Get Tickets for Concerts at the Cherkasy Philharmonic

You can order tickets online on the Concert.ua website, choosing an event to your liking. Just a few minutes, and the tickets will already be attached to your email – check it out, it's simple.