One of the world symbols of Ukrainian musical culture - the same Christmas and New Year's " This time performed by the Latvian singer Laima Vaikule, accompanied by the national choir and folk dance ensemble "
The video became part of the ATB’s Christmas greetings and support for Ukrainian society in difficult times of war, when issues of humanity, friendship, unity, help, and Christmas warmth are especially relevant.
This is stated in the TSN story, which finally dotted the i’s in certain discussions that arose in the Ukrainian segment of the Internet.
“Shchedrik” by Nikolai Leontovich, perhaps like nothing else, popularizes our identity throughout the world, because this tune is heard almost every year on the eve of the holidays on different continents, performed by completely different instruments and groups. It unites young performers, powerful orchestras, and world-class stars in a special atmosphere of Ukrainian warmth.. Strengthens cultural and spiritual connections, increases international support, which our country so needs now.
And it is not surprising that one of the “notes” in this global Christmas sound was EU citizen Laima Vaikule. Firstly, it is the Baltic countries - Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia - that are now the leaders (relative to the level of their own GDP - 1st, 3rd and 4th places) in supporting Ukraine. Simply put, they give us more of what they themselves have than significantly richer countries.
Secondly, Vaikule at one time became one of the first pop stars who publicly condemned Russian aggression and, back in 2022, brought the Ukrainian flag to the stage of an international festival and added a song in Ukrainian to her repertoire. Commenting on her step to Delfi, the singer explained that we should all be together against the war, against those who started this war, and the blue sky of Ukraine should not be torn apart by enemy missiles. A little later, she fundamentally refused a concert in the temporarily occupied Crimea, and this year at a festival in Jurmala she called for more weapons to be given to Ukraine.
After the release of the welcome video, some Internet users wondered why the Latvian performer was participating in it. This is a simple way for the European community to show Ukrainians that we hear and understand each other, we are together.
ATB explained that such a step is connected with the format of international Christmas greetings to Ukrainians from the friendly Latvian people, whose voice and symbol is Laima Vaikule.
" About warmth and gratitude. That goodness can overcome boundaries. We want this Christmas message to become a little light in everyone’s timeline – a reminder that Ukraine is known, supported and respected,” the company noted.
It is worth noting that this is just one of the variations of the famous “Shchedryk”, which traditionally plays during the holidays and unites people not only in Ukraine, but also in Europe, Asia, Japan, America, etc..