Bring Back the Cello That War Took Away

Hi, my name is Nikolai, and I’m a professional cellist originally from Ukraine.

For many years, I dreamed of owning a fine cello — an instrument that would truly become my musical voice. After much work and hope, I was blessed to finally acquire one. That cello became a part of me. I performed with it in concerts across Ukraine and Israel, including as a member of the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine, Israel Sinfonietta Beer Sheva, Israeli Chamber Orchestra and Tel Aviv Soloists Ensemble.

But when the war in Ukraine began, my life — like so many others’ — turned upside down. My wife and I had to flee with our three small children. We ended up in Poland with no home, no income, and no idea what the future would hold. In that moment, I had to make one of the hardest decisions of my life: I sold my beloved cello to help support and protect my family.

Now we are rebuilding our lives in the United States. I’m incredibly grateful to be performing again — I play in several orchestras including the Vancouver Symphony, the Yakima Symphony, Orchestra NOVA, Portland Chamber Orchestra and Oregon Symphony, also perform solo and in chamber music projects.

But for me, as a musician, an instrument is not just a tool — it’s a partner, a voice, a second soul. The cello I had was the one I connected with on every level. Every time I play now, I still compare the sound in my mind and heart to that cello. I miss it deeply.

Recently, I contacted the same cello maker- Gabriele Jebran Yakoub, who built that cello and asked him if he could create another one for me — one that brings that same warmth, clarity, and resonance. He agreed.

This new instrument won’t just help me express myself fully — it will open doors. With a cello of this level, I will be able to audition for larger orchestras, enter solo competitions, participate in international music festivals, and keep growing as a professional musician here in the U.S. It will allow me to move forward artistically and build a secure future for my family through my craft.

The total cost of the instrument is significant. I will be selling my current cello to cover a portion of the expense, but it will only make a small dent. That’s why I’m starting this campaign.

If my story touches you — if you believe in the power of music and in helping artists rise again after hardship — I kindly ask for your support. Every donation, large or small, brings me one step closer to making music again with the kind of instrument that allows me to give my best.

Thank you for reading. Thank you for caring. And thank you for believing in second chances.

If you can donate I would be extremely grateful. If not it would be wonderful if you would share this GoFundMe page on social media to spread the word. If you want to donate another way just send me a message and we will work it out.

Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions for me :)

With all my heart,

Nikolai