This powerful documentary follows Ukraine’s most iconic musicians as they unite their war-torn nation through the healing power of music, offering hope and strength to a people under siege.
ABOUT THE FILM
"Soldiers of Song" follows the extraordinary journey of Ukraine’s most beloved musicians as they unite their war-torn nation through the transformative power of music. Amidst the chaos of Russian aggression, artists like Slava Vakarchuk (Okean Elzy), Andriy Khlyvnyuk (Boombox), and Svitlana Tarabarova share their deeply personal experiences of resilience, hope, and defiance. From intimate interviews and gripping performances, the film intertwines their stories, revealing how their melodies have become anthems of unity and resistance. As these musicians navigate the perils of war, their music becomes a beacon of courage for their fellow citizens, offering solace and strength when it’s needed most. Set against the haunting backdrop of the ongoing conflict, Soldiers of Song captures the emotional weight of their fight. Slava Vakarchuk reflects on the early days of the invasion. Andriy Khlyvnyuk, balancing life as a drone operator and a musician, works tirelessly to raise funds for the defense effort. Meanwhile, an injured opera singer dreams of performing again, while an orchestra conductor recounts the destruction of the Mariupol Theater. Amidst air raids and missile strikes, the production team weaves these stories into a powerful narrative of hope and resistance, showcasing music’s unparalleled ability to heal and unify a nation in its darkest hour.
ABOUT THE GOVERNOR GEORGE PATAKI LEADERSHIP CENTER
“Soldiers of Song” is the latest project supported by the Governor George Pataki Leadership Center, building upon its successful "Footballs for Freedom" program. This initiative, in collaboration with the NFL, involved distributing footballs signed by NFL teams nationwide to Ukrainian youth, personally delivered by Governor Pataki, further strengthening the ties between American sports culture and the supportive spirit for Ukraine. This non-profit has executed 7 mission trips to Ukraine, delivering more than 150 tons of crucial supplies including food, housing, and medical supplies. Additionally, they have donated over 1,000 industrial heaters equipped with generators to Ukraine, effectively providing warmth for a quarter of a million Ukrainian citizens’ efforts.
ABOUT THE FILMMAKERS
Ryan Smith, Director & Producer
This film marks a continuation of Ryan's previous acclaimed work, including the Emmy Award-winning "NFL 360: Who If Not Us." This prior documentary followed a group of football players in Ukraine who, confronted with the turmoil of the Russian invasion, ensured their families' safety, and selflessly volunteered to join the military in defense of their country. This poignant storytelling captured the spirit of sacrifice and determination amidst adversity, a theme resonating throughout Ryan's filmmaking journey.
KADIM TARASOV, EDITOR & MUSIC PRODUCER
Ukrainian film director with over 30 film festival awards. His previous work includes the critically acclaimed series “Culture vs War,” is an artistic study about Ukrainian artists who defend the country and create new meanings of Ukrainian culture.