The concert “Viennese Spring” is dedicated to the memory of the outstanding Austrian conductor, composer, and educator Kurt Schmid, who worked in Ukraine for over two decades, building strong cultural ties between Austria and Ukraine.

May 9, 2026 marks the first anniversary of the Maestro’s passing. Holding this concert in Ukraine — his second homeland — is a gesture of deep gratitude to an artist, humanist, and cultural ambassador between the two countries.

Performed by the Academic Symphony Orchestra of the Luhansk Regional Philharmonic, the program features selected works by Kurt Schmid — music embodying the distinctive “Viennese sound”: elegance, lightness, humor, and melodic richness.

Special attention is given to compositions symbolically connecting Austria and Ukraine, such as the “Austrian-Ukrainian Friendship March”, “Hopak”, and “Forward to Luhansk” — reflecting the cultural dialogue the Maestro consistently fostered.

Performers

• Academic Symphony Orchestra of the Luhansk Regional Philharmonic
• Samuel Koufignial — conductor (France)
• Yurii Kyrychenko — violin

The orchestra, which Kurt Schmid led for more than 20 years, performs this program as a tribute to their shared artistic legacy, combining Viennese tradition with the Ukrainian musical school.

Since May 8, a photo exhibition dedicated to Kurt Schmid is also on display at Lviv Organ Hall, highlighting his artistic journey and cultural impact.

His life motto was simple:
“To make people happy through music.”

Today, this idea resonates more than ever.