Ukrainian
musicians
at war

The Culture Fights Back project to share stories of artists and civil society representatives who have joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

In this section, read the stories of modern Ukrainian artists who, at the cost of their lives and health, protect us against Russia’s military aggression in the 21st century.

Danylo Vinarikov

Danylo Vinarikov is a Ukrainian jazz saxophonist, pianist and leader of the Ukrainian jazz band Danylo Vinarikov Ensemble (before – Dark Side trio) that is known for its unique expression of music inherent in modern society. 

The musicians of the ensemble constantly organised tours and performed at various concert music venues in Ukraine, conquering numerous international and Ukrainian festivals, including Szczecin jazz in Poland, Leopolis Jazz Fest 2018, Jazz on the Dnieper 2020 and Am I Jazz? 2020. Since October 2021, he has been leading the Academic Symphony Orchestra of Dnipro Philharmonic — Dnipro Big Band, where he also plays saxophone. 

Besides that, Danylo plays in a famous rock band in Ukraine Hromadianyn Topinambur that during the war recorded a song dedicated to the heroic past and present of Ukraine. When the full-scale war broke out, Danylo was volunteering and later joined the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as a mortarman.

Photos:
Concert life – Tetyana Shlapak
War time – Volodymyr Sahaidak
Listen to Danylo Vinarikov's music: deezer