"This is a real quantum leap for me!" Kalesnikava performed with a symphony orchestra in Austria
After more than five years, Maria Kalesnikava performed as a soloist with the ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra. In Graz, Austria, she participated in the world premiere of the work Radiophobia, dedicated to Chernobyl.

"This is a real quantum leap for me! Just a year ago, I wasn't sure if I would ever be able to return to the stage as a soloist," Kalesnikava wrote on Facebook after the concert.
The performance took place on October 9 at the ORF musikprotokoll festival. Kalesnikava played the flute, and she was joined by Ukrainian singer, soprano Viktoria Vitrenko, whom Maria calls her dear friend.


"After more than five years, playing with a symphony orchestra again, feeling the incredible energy of the stage and the audience – I still can't believe it's happening!" Kalesnikava shared.
Radiophobia: a silent requiem for Chornobyl is a concerto for flute and soprano with orchestra by composer Leon Shvir.
Maria has a special relationship with the ORF musikprotokoll festival. When Maria was imprisoned, the organizers, together with the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz, held events in her support. Her flute was placed on stage as a sign of the musician's absence. In 2024, Vitrenko dedicated a solo evening to her, and now they have appeared on stage together.
"What a joy to return to my world of music, creativity, friendship, and freedom!" Maria wrote.
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