Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra to perform at 2022 BBC Proms

Ensemble that includes refugees and Ukrainian members of European orchestras to play in opening week

• Comment: 10 concerts not to miss this year

The opening week of the BBC Proms will feature a newly formed Ukrainian orchestra that includes refugees and musicians who have been exempt from fighting, in a move the event organisers say will be a powerful statement".

The Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra, which will play on 21 July and will be led by the conductor Keri-Lynn Wilson, includes 75 military-age musicians from European orchestras who have been granted military exemptions from Ukraine's Ministry for Culture.