Roman Kofman, a distinguished Ukrainian conductor, has died at the age of 90, as confirmed by the National Philharmonic of Ukraine. His passing marks the loss of not only a celebrated musician but also a humanitarian, writer, and educator.
The National Philharmonic expressed its condolences, stating, “The world has lost a genius musician and a great humanist. ‘Music is a way to survive in this world,’ he often repeated. He helped us all survive by filling the walls of our Column Hall with the light of high art.”
Kofman was a prominent figure in the classical music scene, serving as the principal conductor of the National Philharmonic’s Academic Symphony Orchestra and the Kyiv Chamber Orchestra. He was recognized as a People’s Artist of Ukraine, reflecting his significant contributions to the arts.
In 2007, Kofman received the Echo Klassik international award for his outstanding classical music recording. He was also honored with the Order of Merit of Ukraine, third class, and was a recipient of the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.
Throughout his career, Kofman collaborated with over 70 foreign orchestras and conducted both Ukrainian and international ensembles in countries including Italy, Austria, Canada, Mexico, the Netherlands, and the United States.
From 2003 to 2008, he served as the general music director of the Bonn Opera, where he conducted the Beethoven Symphony Orchestra. In addition to his conducting work, Kofman composed soundtracks for films and published a literary work that included two autobiographical novellas.
Roman Kofman, a prominent Ukrainian conductor, has passed away at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy of musical excellence and humanitarian efforts. His contributions to classical music and education are widely recognized both in Ukraine and internationally.