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ConflictsUkraine

Ukrainian youth orchestra turns noise of war into music

Rebecca Ritters outside Kyiv
February 5, 2026

The sounds of air raid sirens, drones and air defense systems have become part of daily life in Ukraine. Recomposing the noises of war, young musicians in a small village outside Kyiv have created "The Shahed Overture."

https://p.dw.com/p/58Awe

In "The Shahed Overture," young musicians recreate the sound of drone engines, air raid sirens and air defense fire — noises that shape their daily lives.

The piece reflects Ukraine's nightly reality, preserves memories of the conflict and gives the players strength and hope as they imagine a better future through music.

Rebecca Ritters stands in a street in the West Bank with a bullet proof vest on that says "press"
Rebecca Ritters DW correspondent and news anchor currently covering Israel and the Palestinian Territories.rebeccaritters