CLEVELAND — It’s been more than four months since Russia invaded Ukraine. 

Many have been wondering how they can help the now war-torn country. 

The Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus of North America has figured out a way to raise money for Ukraine while sharing the culture with people here in America. 

On Saturday, the ensemble is hosting a benefit concert and organizers said all proceeds will go directly to supporting Ukraine. 

The bandura is a unique 60-stringed Ukrainian instrument.

Oleh Mahlay, the artistic director of the Ukrainian Bandurist chorus of North America, explained that this folk-like instrument has gone through a lot of turmoil. The bandura was often used to share the oral history of Ukraine and he said it was even banned at one point. 

“It was banned and persecuted by the Russian czarist regime during the soviet times,” Mahlay said. 

The musician said he feels a sense of responsibility for preserving the instrument’s history and he explained that few people alive today can play the bandura. 

“Hundreds of thousands [of people] only play this instrument, so it’s not just a point of pride, it’s understanding it’s an obligation that you have to continue this instrument,” he said. “There have been people who have sat in this chair with this instrument that have been persecuted or killed.” 

On Saturday, the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus of North America will share their traditional music with concert-goers at Severance Hall. 

Ensemble members from across the country will perform at this event. 

The concert will also feature a guest artist, speakers and an in-person, interactive collaboration with the Kent State Wick Poetry Center's Dear Ukraine poem. 

“All the funds that are raised we are sending to Ukraine through three organizations,” he said. “Northeast Ohio will be helping Ukraine on a very real and quick basis.” 

To purchase tickets, click here.