In Kyiv, during the IV International Festival Drum Island Fest 2026, a new national record of Ukraine was officially set — 250 participants simultaneously performed a unified rhythmic composition on percussion instruments within a single event.
The record was officially certified by Hanna Krysiuk, General Director and founder of the Book of World Records, in the categories “Art” and “Mass Events.”
The highlight of the festival was the Freedom Beat performance, which took place on the stage of the Krakiv Cultural Cluster. At a designated moment, 250 participants — from children to professional musicians — performed in perfect synchrony, demonstrating coordination, energy, and the power of collective sound.
During the official verification process, all required criteria were confirmed, including the number of participants, simultaneity of performance, and compliance with the category requirements.
The festival, organized by the NGO “Rhythms of Hope,” continues to demonstrate dynamic growth: from 65 participants in 2023 to 250 in 2026.
Both young performers and well-known Ukrainian musicians took part in setting the record, including Kateryna Bahinska, Yakiv Taruntsov, Yevhen Selezniov, and Roman Pylypenko.
This record is more than just a number. It is a powerful example of unity through art — a moment when hundreds of people sound as one.
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Photo: Book World Records