Athens State Orchestra Nixes Concert of Kremlin-Supporting Pianist Amid Rising Tensions

The Athens State Orchestra has announced the cancellation of a scheduled performance by Russian pianist Denis Matsuev, according to a statement issued on Monday.

“The Orchestra has long been committed to artistic excellence as well as the principles of open dialogue and mutual respect that are central to the European cultural community,” the statement read. “In light of the current international circumstances, it has opted to revise its programming accordingly.”

Another pianist will take Matsuev’s place for the concert on November 21, with more information to be provided later.

Matsuev, a well-known pianist recognized for his endorsement of President Vladimir Putin and his administration’s policies, particularly regarding Ukraine, has not appeared in the West since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022.

In 2018, he received the Order of Honor from Putin for his contributions to Russian culture and the arts.

This is not the first incident where a Russian artist who supports Moscow’s policies has had performances canceled in Europe. In July, Italy’s Royal Palace of Caserta withdrew an engagement with conductor Valery Gergiev after public backlash and worries that his participation could be perceived as a means of Kremlin propaganda.