The message reads, in part:
“Legendary orchestra conductor Yury Temirkanov founded the festival and served as its long-time director and inspiration. This year’s festival will take place without the great Maestro, but I am confident that the traditions of serving high art, instilled by him, will continue to distinguish this truly unique project.
Arts Square is a significant part of the immensely rich creative legacy of Yury Temirkanov, an outstanding figure in national and world culture. For many years, Russia’s northern capital has successfully hosted the festival, which is rightfully regarded as a grand event in the cultural life of St Petersburg and the entire country. Its venues bring together renowned performers and creative teams, and the festival offers a vast and diverse programme to the public, including symphony and chamber music concerts, literary soirees, and performances by ballet stars.”