Mariia Petrovska at 'Listen to the World'

We are delighted to welcome Mariia Petrovska to Listen to the World, especially during a month that highlights the courage and contribution of refugees across the UK.  

Mariia Petrovska is a charismatic bandura player and singer, recognised for combining virtuoso technique with a pure and expressive voice. A multi-award-winning Ukrainian musician, she moved to the UK after the Russian invasion and graduated from BIMM Manchester with first-class honours in Popular Music Performance and Songwriting. Through her music, she continues to share Ukrainian culture and tell Ukraine’s story, performing with Cultural Forces and leading the volunteer initiative People’s Territory of Happiness.  Her notable appearances include the Eurovision Village stage (2023), London’s Finborough Theatre (2024), Ukraine Unbroken at Arcola Theatre London (2026), as well as a number of acclaimed solo concerts across the UK in 2025 and 2026.

Mariia will be accompanied tonight by, Kristina Surma 

Kristina is a professional violinist with over a decade of experience in orchestral, theatre, and live performance. A graduate of the National Lviv Academy of Music, she began her career in Ukraine, performing with the Symphony Orchestra of the Uzhhorod Philharmonic, the Uzhhorod Drama Theatre, and a local chamber orchestra. In 2022, she relocated to London to expand her artistic horizons within the entertainment industry. Since then, she has collaborated with Senbla, a leading live music and event production company, and regularly performs with the London Musical Theatre Orchestra (LMTO). Through LMTO’s development scheme, Kristina has appeared on prestigious West End stages such as the Theatre Royal Drury Lane and the London Palladium. Her artistry bridges classical precision and contemporary flair, making her a dynamic presence in London’s vibrant music scene.

Listen to the World concerts - what to expect

Step off the busy London streets into an oasis of beauty and calm at St Ethelburga's Centre, nestled between corporate scyscrappers near Liverpool Street station. More than a concert, Listen to the World events are intimate evenings full of warmth and connection and where we often have a Q&A with the performers. Come with friends or come on your own. You may meet someone new in the audience, or simply enjoy your own company. Our performers may invite you to join them in song, sound or dance, and you can join in as much or as little as you like. We look forward to welcoming you!

We are immensely grateful to the National Lottery Arts Council England and to Tides Foundation for funding for this programme.