Athens State Orchestra Cancels Concert of Controversial Russian Pianist Amid Geopolitical Tensions

The Athens State Orchestra announced the cancellation of a scheduled performance by Russian pianist Denis Matsuev in a statement released on Monday.

The orchestra emphasized its commitment to artistic excellence and the values of open dialogue and mutual respect that are central to the European cultural identity. “In light of the current international circumstances, we have decided to modify our programming accordingly,” the statement read.

For the concert set for November 21, another pianist will take Matsuev’s place, with more information to be provided in due course.

Matsuev, a well-known pianist recognized for his support of President Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin’s policies, particularly regarding Ukraine, has not appeared in Western venues since Russia initiated its full-scale invasion in 2022.

He was honored with the Order of Honor by Putin in 2018 for his contributions to Russian culture and the arts.

This is not the first instance of a Russian artist supportive of Moscow’s stance facing concert cancellations in Europe. In July, Italy’s Royal Palace of Caserta canceled a concert by conductor Valery Gergiev due to public backlash and fears that his performance could serve as a means of Kremlin propaganda.