Roman Kofman Passes Away: The Maestro’s Legacy and Farewell Date
The distinguished Ukrainian conductor Roman Kofman has died at the age of 90 — a figure who for decades helped shape our symphonic tradition. The farewell will take place on February 27 at 10:30 at Jerusalem’s main public cemetery.
By Tetiana Suchkova-Ladik
February 26, 2026 · 1 min read
Briefly about the event
The Ukrainian musical community has lost one of its key conductors. Roman Kofman, People's Artist of Ukraine, long-time principal conductor of the Academic Symphony Orchestra of the National Philharmonic of Ukraine and the Kyiv Chamber Orchestra, has died at the age of 90. This was reported by UNN with reference to a statement from the National Philharmonic of Ukraine.
Role in Ukraine's culture
Kofman was not only a high-level performer but also a teacher and cultural coordinator: his concerts brought generations of listeners together, and his students continue his school of conducting. For this reason, this loss is not a private sad piece of news, but an event for the entire musical community and the country's cultural memory.
"Music is a way to survive in this world"
— Roman Kofman
Where and when the farewell will take place
You can say goodbye to the maestro on February 27. The funeral will take place at 10:30 at the main public cemetery of Jerusalem, — information released by the National Philharmonic.
What this means moving forward
The passing of an artist of this stature always prompts questions: how to preserve the creative school, how to pass experience on to young musicians, and how to ensure that cultural memory becomes part of national resilience. The musical community is already expressing condolences to his family and colleagues; the next steps are not only remembrance but also systematic work with archives, concert programs, and educational initiatives that will ensure Kofman's legacy remains alive.
