Music Corner in Poole gifts saxophone to Ukraine refugee

Ivanka, a talented musician from Ukrainian, has been gifted a saxophone by Music-Corner after her host family spoke of her passion for playing.

The 22-year-old and her mother fled their hometown amid Russia’s invasion and arrived with a Dorset host family in May.

Ivanka had been studying music in Ukraine and would regularly play her saxophone at weddings and functions but was forced to leave it behind when she fled the warzone.

Read more: How Dorset residents can help people in Ukraine

Venetia Percy-Davis, who took in the mother and daughter, said: “She had been studying music for a long time, and I knew she loved playing it.

“I felt that music would be such a lovely thing for her mental health so I thought I’d see if there was anyone that could help.

“Initially, a local dog walker lent a saxophone, but while that was going on I approached Robert at Music Corner and asked him if there was any chance he could help. He said he would see what he could do.”

Ivanka and Robert.

Robert Driver, who set up Music Corner in 2021 to help make instruments more accessible, kindly gifted Ivanka with a saxophone.

He said: “What Ivanka went through you wouldn’t wish that on anyone. I desperately wanted to help out.”

Venetia told the Daily Echo that Ivanka was thrilled with her saxophone and was quick to play a cover of George Michael’s Careless Whisper.

Venetia said: "She is so happy. Robert is so generous, and we are very moved by his generosity.

Read more: Dorset's response to crisis in Ukraine

“She couldn’t bring the saxophone with her, she’s left her brother behind, and her father behind, so it’s very hard for her. It’s leaving behind everything she knows.

“Music is so good for mental health, and they’ve come from very troubled times, and having something like that is just helpful.

“They are absolutely lovely and we are lucky to have them come into our lives.”