2022 Artists

2022 Artist Profiles

Photo by Oleg Petrasiuk

2022 Festival Headliner - Jerry Heil

Yana Oleksandrivna Shemaeva, known professionally as Jerry Heil, is a Ukrainian singer, songwriter, and YouTuber. Heil began her career after launching her YouTube channel in 2012, publishing vlogs and musical covers. Heil began her professional music career in 2017, releasing her debut extended play De miy dim with Vidlik Records. She later released the single "#OHRANA_OTMENA" in 2019, which became a top five hit in Ukraine. Her debut studio album #YA_YANA was later released in October 2019. Since beginning her YouTube channel, she has accumulated more than 34.9 million views, and 193 thousand subscribers.

HOOSLI UKRAINIAN MALE CHORUS - Hoosli has entertained audiences for over 50 years with its repertoire of liturgical music and traditional folk songs, as well as the patriotic songs of Ukraine and the Kozaky. Based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and under the direction of Tadeusz Biernacki, the majesty and passion of Hoosli’s four-part male harmonies infuse emotion and power into every performance. Hoosli is named after an ancient Ukrainian musical instrument similar to a zither, which represents versatility and vitality, for it produces not only music, but a feeling as well. It is both a connection to the past and a song to the future.

Website: www.hoosli.com

THOSE IDIOTS - Those Idiots, from Buffalo, NY, started as a rock and roll band playing original music and covers in 1998. In early 2001, shortly after the passing of the band leader Myron Deputat’s brother Adrian, they were booked to play Buffalo's Dyngus Day celebration at the Adam Mickiewicz Library. While setting up they realized that the crowd may not be open to their high energy rock music so Deputat quickly ran out, made photo copies of some Ukrainian polka music charts he had...and distributed them to the rest of the band. They performed these polkas to everyone's delight and also had fun doing it. After running out of polka music, Deputat turned to the band and yelled, “Sedated, polka style!” which became a polka version of the Ramones song “I wanna be Sedated”, thereby laying the foundation of what was to become their wildly popular, signature Rolka (rock-polka) sound. Those Idiots are considered by some to be a pivotal factor in the revival of Buffalo's Dyngus Day and perform annually to thousands at the Buffalo Central Terminal. These young men play high energy, fun music that relates to a younger crowd.

TRYZUB UKRAINIAN DANCE ENSEMBLE - A prominent figure in Canada's fabric of Ukrainian Dance groups, the Tryzub Ukrainian Dance Ensemble is a vibrant group of semi-professional dancers from Calgary, Alberta. Tryzub is a consistent feature artist of the Calgary Stampede Parade and Calgary’s Globalfest. Tryzub has performed across Canada, the USA, Mexico, Panama, Columbia, Australia, Turkey, and our beloved Ukraine. Tryzub is most recently known for its production “Heroiam Slava – Glory to the Heroes”, and for organizing the Glory to Ukraine 2022 parade entry that received National acclaim – raising awareness for the war in Ukraine. We are honored to be performing in Toronto. Slava Ukraini!

Website: www.tryzub.ca

Artists In Alphabetical Order

ALISA OSAVELYUK - Alisa Osavelyuk is 21 years old and is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Honours Life Sciences at McMaster University. Alisa was born in Ukraine, in the city of Ternopil. Alisa started playing bandura 12 years ago and joined the bandura ensemble by the name "Sribni Struny" which means "Silver Strings". She moved to Canada with her family when she was 13 years old. Alisa decided to continue with her bandura education and joined the Bandura Capella "Zoloti Struny" which means "Golden Strings" and now is part of the "Women's Bandura Ensemble of North America" or WBENA. Alisa started taking vocal classes in 2016 to improve and expand her singing skills. Alisa has won competitions in the Kiwanis Toronto Music Festival as well as in the Ukrainian Music Festival. Alisa enjoys playing bandura and loves bringing joy to the audience.

ARKAN / UKRAINIAN ACADEMY OF DANCE - The Ukrainian Academy of Dance has trained over 1500 dancers since it was founded in 1987. This year the school is celebrating its 36th anniversary. Arkan Dance Company was launched as the performing ensemble of the Academy. Since their formation, Arkan has performed at International festivals in Florida, New York and Boston, U.S.A, Taiwan, Brazil, at Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival in Dauphin, Manitoba, Drummondville, Quebec, Nova Scotia, China, Mexico, Turkey, Italy, Korea, Ukraine and Indonesia. Arkan was proud to be able to visit Ukraine in the summer of 2019, just before Covid shut down the world. There they participated in workshops with renowned dance companies, performed in Lviv as well as had the privilege of performing in Kyiv on Khreshchatyk on Independence Day!

ARTEM SKOROKHOD - Artem Skorokhod is a Ukrainian sound producer, musician, singer, songwriter. He started his music path in 2008 as a part of a band, then proceeded as a solo artist with 3 albums and many singles. He produced music for famous artists from Ukraine and other countries. Currently Artem resides with his wife and two little ones in Toronto. Artem composes songs of different music styles and is very proud that Ukrainian music is now heard all over the world.

ASANNA - 21-year-old Asanna is a first generation Ukrainian-American, born and raised in New Jersey. In 2016 she was invited to sing the Ukrainian National Anthem at Madison Square Garden in New York City and the Prudential Center in New Jersey. In 2016 she performed with singer Pavlo Tabakov in Lviv, Ukraine. In 2018 she had the opportunity to be a guest performer with the Bravura Philharmonic Orchestra in Princeton, NJ. She has been actively performing at various concerts and fundraisers for Ukraine. She currently attends New York University, majoring in Vocal Performance with a classical voice concentration. Asanna partnered with IronCreek Records, co-produced by Orlando Pagan and Kathryn Caballero, and together they released two singles, “Where Is My Ukraine,” a song in support of Ukraine, and a pop song, “One Way Or Another,” available on all platforms.

AURESIA - With musical roots as diverse as the world’s music lovers, Montreal based artist and multi-instrumentalist Auresia, has been performing and charming audiences since she was just 3 years old. Effortlessly blending the soul of reggae with various rooted sounds from around the world, Auresia has a penchant for delivering unexpected genre-bending songs. Nominated for 5 reggae music awards and for favourite world artist at the indie music awards, Auresia has also toured across Canada, South America and has performed in Europe, the USA, Jamaica and Cuba. Singing in English, French, Spanish and Ukrainian Auresia released her 4th album in Ukrainian ‘Korinnya’ (meaning 'roots' in her mother-tongue after her previous album “Raices”.

BANDURA BEYOND BORDERS - Bandura Beyond Borders is a Toronto-based instrumental bandura quartet made up of close friends Borys Ostapienko, Orest Chornomaz, Oleksander Petlura and Ivan Dusanowskyj. Together, they approach the bandura from a new, fresh perspective. In traditional ensembles, the bandura is used for accompanying singing, but Bandura Beyond Borders demonstrates that the bandura can have a voice of its own. The group’s skillful playing showcases the bandura as a versatile and expressive instrument that can be used to play different styles of music, including classical, adaptations of popular music, and inventive arrangements of traditional Ukrainian songs. Bandura Beyond Borders has entertained audiences from New York City to Sault Ste Marie. The quartet also share their passion for the bandura and inspire people of all ages to learn through the Toronto Bandura School, which they founded together in 2015."

BARVINOK HAMILTON - Barvinok Hamilton Ukrainian Dance Ensemble has been in existence for over 60 years and is home to over 30 students between the ages of 3 and 25. Based in the Holy Spirit Church Hall in Hamilton, Ontario, and under the direction of Nadine Usyk and Taras Gulka, dancers perform year-round at various church celebrations, festivals, concerts, and celebrations within the Greater Toronto Area, as well as the Hamilton & Niagara regions. Barvinok performed on the televised broadcast revival of the “Tiny Talent Time” show, and in front of appreciative audiences at the Bloor West Village Toronto Ukrainian Festival, the Capital Ukrainian Festival in Ottawa, and the St. Josaphat's Ukrainian Festival in Rochester, where it made its US debut.

BARVINOK SCHOOL OF UKRAINIAN DANCE FROM MISSISSAUGA - This year is the 54th year since Barvinok has been providing traditional Ukrainian dance instruction to the young generations of Ukrainians in Mississauga. As of September 2022, Barvinok will have a chance to teach Ukrainian dancing to over 400 students of different ages. We have opened our doors to the newcomers from Ukraine. During this unprecedented COVID time, Barvinok worked very hard to preserve the community and ensure that everyone is safe and healthy. We continued teaching dancing online to more than 270 dancers and as a result were able to put together 2 online year end concerts. Last May Barvinok had its first after COVID Annual Concert at our home base at the Living Arts Centre in Mississauga.

Website: www.barvinok.org

BARVY BAND - The Greater Toronto Area-based Barvy band was founded in 2012 under the name Lvivsky Batyary. Later the musicians worked with the band Zorepad, and then during the last two years the band was renewed with young musicians and changed its name to "Barvy". They have participated in many Ukrainian festivals throughout Canada and the USA. The leader of the group is Mykola Romanko.

BRATTIA PRYKARPATTIA - Brattia Prykarpattia or Carpathian Lads originally from the Boiky region of the Carpathian Mountains, formed a melodic vocal and instrumental group a few years ago. Now, the group is very popular and well known in the Tristate area. They are in high demand, having performed at Ukrainian Festivals in USA, in places like Stamford and New Britain, CT, Trenton, NJ, Philadelphia, PA, Boston MA, Rochester, Albany, Yonkers, SUMA Resort in Ellenville, and Soyuzivka Resort in Kerhonkson, NY as well as at many weddings and dance receptions.

CRESCENDO - The Crescendo chamber choir was created in 2020 under the direction of Pavlo Fondera. The choir has an interesting, complex and diverse repertoire. During its existence, the group took part in many charity concerts in support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and for humanitarian aid to Ukraine. The members of the group are talented young people from Toronto who enthusiastically and passionately perform and popularize Ukrainian choral and pop music in Canada.

DAUGAVINA - Daugavina (dow-gah-vee-nja) is a Latvian youth and masters dance group. Founded more than 50 years ago, the group dances both traditional Latvian folk dances and modern choreographies based on the movements and patterns of folk dances. Over the years the group has participated in Song and Dance Festivals across Canada, the USA and Latvia. It has also represented the multi-culturalism of Toronto at both the opening of the SkyDome and the opening ceremonies of the Pan Am Games in 2015. During the pandemic, the group remained active through rehearsals on zoom but we are SO HAPPY to be able to dance together again.Daugavina is honoured to support our Ukrainian Friends by dancing in your Festival. We stand with Ukraine.

DESNA - For more than 45 years, Toronto-based Desna has been dazzling audiences throughout Canada, the US and abroad with a wide repertoire of Ukrainian dances. Under the direction of Virsky-trained Yuri & Luba Grekov, Desna presents technically demanding and exhilarating dances accented by exquisite costumes and diverse music. Dance is deeply woven into our Ukrainian culture and unites us without the use of words. As our community has stood together to fight for Ukraine’s independence, Desna is committed to its responsibility to share our culture through the form of dance and use this celebration of movement in continuing to keep our culture’s heart beating.

Website: https://www.desna.ca

DESNA SCHOOL - Under the Artistic Direction of Yuri and Luba Grekov, students in the Toronto area from ages 3 to 16 are exposed to the Virsky style of dance which includes ballet technique, dance fundamentals, and Ukrainian music. Fostering growth, education, and Ukrainian culture in a fun and safe environment where children can develop as individuals and discover their Ukrainian heritage. Desna school dancers have been able to promote Ukrainian dance on many stages including: Toronto Ukrainian Festival, Mississauga Living Arts Centre, Dauphin (MB) and parts of Ukraine.

DIANA GRUSHETSKA - Diana Grushetska is a singer and songwriter known in the Chernivtsi region of Ukraine. She has performed and has won first place in festivals in the Chernivtsi region, Kherson region, in Kyiv and in Bangladesh, and she has performed in a club in Germany. Diana is able to sing in Ukrainian, English, Bengali, Indian, Tamils, Korean, Japanese and Chinese. The last song she composed was "Ukraine War Sad Song 2022". Her feelings about the war in Ukraine expressed in this song won the hearts of many people and famous Ukrainian artists.

DUET MALVY - Kalyna and Uliana Leshchuk are vocalists as well as bandura players. They have performed as a duet throughout the tristate area in the US. Kalyna and Uliana have performed at the Permanent Mission of Ukraine to the UN, different churches and synagogues, and various International Club meetings. Kalyna and Uliana are both members of the Women’s Bandurist Ensemble of North America. They are also active members of Plast, CYM, and the Iskra Ukrainian Dance Academy. In the spring of 2018, Uliana performed at the Golden Key Festival winners’ recital held at Carnegie Hall.

EMILY MISURA - Emily Misura (also known as Stringing Him Along) is a versatile and dynamic Toronto violinist with Ukrainian heritage. She began her musical journey jamming with her grandfather on polkas, obereks and traditional Ukrainian folk songs; this led to her obtaining Bachelors of Music in violin performance and music technology. She has extensively collaborated with bands, DJs, rappers and singer-songwriters, and has shared the stage with famous names such as The Who, The Eagles, Weird Al Yankovic, Drake, ELO, Chris Carrabba, Michael Bolton and Machine Gun Kelly. Her song "Russian Warship" will be released on the first day of the Toronto Ukrainian Festival to celebrate the resilience of Ukrainians worldwide.

Website: www.stringinghimalong.com/

HLOPTSI Z MISTA - HLOPTSI Z MISTA: Based from Toronto and ready to perform at your next event, Hloptsi z Mista (aka: X3M) is a Ukrainian band serving the public with a wide repertoire of fast polkas, groovy ballads, and blazing rock. Hloptsi z Mista's repertoire allows them to craft dynamic and enjoyable sets guaranteed to get listeners up off their seats and dancing all night. The band members enjoy taking traditional Ukrainian melodies that they grew up listening to, and adding modern twists to make the songs appealing to younger generations, but still remain recognizable for older audiences to sing and dance along to. With the recent release of their first CD, titled Kompakt Dysk, X3M hopes to continue being a part of their fans' everyday playlist for any occasion.

Website: https://x3mzabava.wixsite.com/hloptsi-z-mista

HONEYPAW - Honeypaw combines a respect for the Lithuanian sutartinė and the Finnish kalevala traditions, creating music that reflects the bustling Toronto landscape wrapped in the comfort of the surrounding forests. They play traditional Baltic psalteries, tsymbaly, jouhikko, and instruments built into hollow trees. The Journal of Musicology calls Honeypaw “Unusual, evocative, and inviting one to rethink the concept of instrumentality”. The Wire Magazine says they are “meditative and evocative, and fit well with the growing body of avant garde Baltic neo-folklore". Kansanmusiikki Magazine says "It struck me to the roots of my heart where the love for tradition and forest meet".

Website: www.honeypawband.com

IHOR AND ANDRIANA ARTEMYAK - Ihor and Andriana Artemyak are a married singing duo originally from Ternopil, Ukraine. For many years they have performed at international festivals and concerts, supporting Ukrainian songs and the culture of their native country. They also perform with the Toronto-based Artemyak band.

INESA BRATOUSHCHYK - Inesa Bratoushchyk is a famous singer from Ukraine. Noted for her beautiful voice and contributions to Ukrainian culture she has been decorated with state and professional awards. In 1991 she started performing with her husband, Orest Khoma. Their pop and interpretations of Ukrainian folk songs have earned them adoration from many fans at home and abroad. Since 2014 Inesa and Orest have been actively performing for the Ukrainian troops in Eastern Ukraine. Inessa and Orest now reside in Poland. Inessa currently conducts musical therapy for the Ukrainian children affected by the war.

KALENDAR - Based in Toronto, Kalendar is an (almost) all-female vocal ensemble that looks towards the singing traditions and repertoire of rural Ukraine. While they view themselves as modern women (and man), they all get immeasurable satisfaction in taking the time to participate in communal singing of Ukrainian folk songs around a table of friends. Polyphony is the obvious result, with tingling harmonic overtones and goosebumps soon following. The group naturally evolved from the folk singing nights hosted by Kosa Kolektiv. The specific vocal timbre which they strive for is known in Ukrainian singing culture as ridnyj holos” – meaning “the people’s voice”. They embrace every chance they get to study with master singers from Ukraine, like Maria Ihnatowych or members of Dakha Brakha. Kalendar’s hope is to share some of the beauty of Ukrainian cultural inheritance with you.

KALYNA - Based out of the Ukrainian National Federation, Toronto’s Kalyna Performing Arts Company is comprised of talented semi-professional Ukrainian dancers with a passion for performing! Honouring the group’s rich history and deeply seeded roots in the Ukrainian-Canadian community, the recently revitalized KALYNA is currently under the direction of Stefan Kuziw and is experiencing an unprecedented level of artistic excellence. Stefan’s lifelong passion and enthusiasm for Ukrainian dance is displayed through his constant and extensive research resulting in unique, dynamic, and high caliber Virsky-inspired choreography. Stefan and his group of dedicated performers are enthusiastic to share their journey with you as they continue to grow to impressive new heights!

KOBZARI - Kobzari is a Toronto-based group of musicians led by Merited Artist of Ukraine, Victor Mishalow, interested in performing authentic folk music on traditional kobzar instruments, such as kobza, bandura, torban, and lira, in a historically informed manner.

KORINYA - ("roots" in English), began as a family band in 2005. It has since developed into a contemporary folk band with a fresh, grassroots sound. Their music brings the village band tradition and Ukrainian musical heritage into the context of modern life in the diaspora. The band has toured through Canada, the US and Ukraine, playing at weddings, events, and festivals, including the Toronto Ukrainian Festival, the Clearwater's Great Hudson Revival (New York, USA) and the Boyko Festival (Turka, Lviv, Ukraine) where in 2012, Korinya won first place. Members include Sana Shepko (violin), Zoya Shepko (accordion), Alina Kuzma (vocals), and Nick Hladio (double bass). The group has two full- length studio albums: Korinya (2013), and Zemlya (2017), a live recording album: En Route Tour 2019, and a digital EP, Lisom Lisom (2021). You can find Korinya's music on all major music streaming sites.

LECHOWIA - With its unique flair and style, Toronto's award winning Lechowia Polish Canadian Folk Dance Company recreates for the stage the rich artistry of Polish folk culture while delighting its audiences at home and abroad! Founded in 1977 as an amateur dance organization, Lechowia (pronounced le-hovya) takes its name from Lech, a prominent Polish legendary figure credited for establishing the Polish nation. Today, the Company comprises over 200 dancers, singers and musicians ranging from children to adults. Lechowia's varied repertoire includes the stately court dances, the Mazur and the Polonaise made popular by Frederic Chopin; the high-spirited Polka, the colourful Krakowiak, the fiery Oberek, the dazzling Goralski mountaineer's dance as well as the beautiful songs of Silesia.

LEVADA and ORION CHOIRS - The Ukrainian Youth Ensembles consist of the Levada Women’s Choir, Orion Men’s Choir & Vanguard Concert/Marching Band. It was founded in 1985 in Toronto, under the musical direction of the late Maestro Wasyl Kardash. Currently Roman Yasinsky is the artistic director and Zhanna Zinchenko is the conductor of Choirs. The choirs consist of members who are passionate about choral music. They demonstrate a desire for artistic growth, new partnerships in the community, singing the songs of their heritage, preserving their cultural identity and contributing to Canada’s multicultural fabric. Many of our choir members are high school and university students, young professionals and retirees who together aspire to raise the choir’ profile in the community.

LUX - Lux is a Canadian-Ukrainian band based out of Toronto established in late 2019 by 6 talented, young, lifelong friends. After performing at multiple zabavas, large family gatherings, Ivana Kupala and New Years events, Lux has proven to be a crowd-pleasing and energetic Ukrainian polka band. Lux stays true to their cultural roots with a repertoire of traditional material with modern twists. Whether you’d like to polka, hear some jazz, or anything in between, Lux puts a twist on every Ukrainian song in order to create their own style of music. Band members: Aleksa Gobosz with lead vocals, Roman Kus on saxophone and keys, Nazar Kostiv on accordion, guitar and vocals, Orest Benko on guitar and vocals, Victor Fik on bass guitar, and Michael Wankewycz on percussion.

LVIV DANCE ENSEMBLE - For over 45 years the Lviv Dance Ensemble has been representing the Ukrainian Community in Oshawa & the Durham Region. Under the direction of Laurie Waytowich, Anna Strojwons, and Catherine McCallion the ensemble performs a unique repertoire of dances from the different regions of Ukraine. After a hiatus from in-person performances during the Covid Pandemic, the ensemble has returned in full force this summer, performing at various fundraising events and rallies in support of humanitarian aid and the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The ensemble is honoured to be returning to the Toronto Ukrainian Festival.

MARKO FARION - Marko Farion is an accomplished bandurist and bass soloist. He received bandura training from Hryhory Kytasty. He also studied music and voice at Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Institute of Music. His accomplishments include performances and recordings with the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus, the Detroit Concert Choir, the Millennium Choir, and the Detroit Opera Theatre Chorus. He has traveled the globe giving performances and teaching the bandura at workshops and camps in N. America, S. America, Europe including several tours in Ukraine. He has several releases: an EP called “Bandura LIVE!”, several digital singles, and he released “Quarantune Kobzar” in digital-only format of all his quarantine performances during the shutdown. His music is available on iTunes, Spotify and Amazon Music.

MYRON DEPUTAT - Myron Deputat is a singer/songwriter producer/engineer from Buffalo, NY. Though he is best known for his polka ensemble, “Those Idiots”, which has a large following in the Western New York area, Myron is versed in many styles of music. From his humble beginnings, singing Ukrainian folk songs at PLAST Ukrainian Scout camps as a child, to the big stage, Myron has always performed with energy, enthusiasm and passion.

NADIA KULYK - Nadia Kulyk was born in Ukraine. Educated at the Ternopil National Pedagogical University and with strong bandura schooling, she has performed solo programs on the stages in Lviv, Kyiv, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Germany and France. Her early songs promoted the ethnicity and culture of Lemkos. As of 2000, Nadia has released several CD albums including “Don’t Forget” (2008), “Ouch, My Poem” (2010), “In Every Heart with Christmas” (2013). A winner of numerous festivals-competitions in Ukraine, Nadia was awarded with the Certificate of Minister of Culture and Tourism of Ukraine. In 2012, she was awarded with a title of Honoured Artist of Ukraine.

NASTASIA Y - Born in Ukraine, Nastasia Y [nas-TA-s’yah] is a multi-talented artist who blends world music tradition with jazz and futuristic ideals. She grew up in Kyiv, surrounded by music of the Ukrainian resistance, - her late father was the singer of the band Ruthenia. After immigrating to Toronto, Nastasia pursued a jazz piano degree, founding the popular band StereoFlavour, and releasing her first original r&b album in English under the name “Stacey Y”. She later decided to combine her Slavic heritage into her sound with the fusion band DoVira, releasing an album that was coined "world fusion at its best". Nastasia is inspired by the vibrant multi-cultural city of Toronto she lives in, singing in multiple languages from Serbian to Arabic, and performing with groups such as BLISK. Since the invasion of Ukraine, she has been involved with fundraising as a member of WithUkraine.CA and releasing new music she has created over the pandemic.

Website: NastasiaY.com

NATALYA GENNADI - Ukrainian Canadian soprano Natalya Gennadi is establishing her operatic career in North America in a wide range of repertoire. Natalya caused a sensation when she stepped in at short notice in her debut in the leading role of Oksana G, Tapestry Opera’s harrowing tale about human trafficking. Her critically acclaimed performance of this world premiere was nominated for the prestigious Dora Mavor Award. Natalya’s 2022 engagements include solo collaborations with Music and Beyond Festival, Ottawa, Gryphon Trio, Rose Orchestra, Brampton, Counterpoint Orchestra, Toronto Concert Orchestra and Tapestry Opera. Recent opera roles include Violetta in La Traviata, Donna Anna in Don Giovanni, Countess Almaviva in Le Nozze di Figaro, and Mimi in La Bohème. During the pandemic Ms. Gennadi produced a digital Ukrainian Art Song Mini Series and became a 2021 recipient of the prestigious REACH Development Grant.

Websites: http://natalyagennadi.com/
https://www.domoneyartists.com/natalya-gennadi-soprano.html

NATALIA KASKOVA - Natalia Kaskova was born in Khmelnytskyi, Ukraine but currently resides in the Greater Toronto Area. She studied at the College of Music and graduated with honours. After graduating from university, Natalia was invited to the Music Arts Center to join the famous ensemble “Cossacks of Podillya” under the guidance of the People’s Artist of Ukraine Mykola Balema. Her repertoire included both dramatic and comic works. Natalia is able to perform folk music as well as operatic vocals. In Natalie’s repertoire there are more than 50 works of the composer Podilsky and the arranger Ivan Pustovy. Among them are such famous songs as “Oh,Ivana on Kupala”and ”Faith, Love and Hope”. Natalia is supporting her creative activity by giving concerts in Europe.

NERVY BAND - Nervy are a Toronto-based band that has been performing for the Ukrainian community in both Canada and the States for events such as Student Club Zabavas, Ivana Kupala, Vyshyvanyj Vechir and your typical traditional Ukrainian weddings and of course the Toronto Ukrainian Festival. Let the sounds of folkloric Ukrainian songs mix with rock music as your ears find their new passion.

NOVE POKOLINYA - Nove Pokolinya is a Toronto, Ontario - Canada based band which has been around since the early 1980's. Nove Pokolinya performed and entertained at weddings, zabavas, festivals, etc. all over Canada and the United States for almost 4 decades. The band semi-retired about 10 years ago but still perform for special events or requests. Contact: Andrij Sydoryshyn @ 1-(416) 769-2058

Oksana Orlova – Oksana Orlova is a singer (soprano) and songwriter from Ukraine. The main goal of her life is to represent Ukrainian music, Ukrainian songs, Ukrainian language and Ukrainian culture in the world. Oksana has her own YouTube channel. Her songs include a lot of love for her Motherland Ukraine. Since June 2007 she has lived in Canada. Nowadays she works on her album of songs “Lety, moya pisne, lety!”

OLENKA SLYWYNSKA - Olenka Slywynska has been praised with having “a lush, honey-coloured sound filling the hall, singing everyone else under the table” (Opera Canada). Ms. Slywynska performs in opera, oratorio and does recital work. She has enjoyed interesting recital opportunities at the Tanglewood Music Festival, Hamilton Philharmonic’s What’s Next festival, and ARC festivals. Olenka has performed oratorio with the Hamilton Philharmonic Symphony, Toronto Classical Singers, Vesnivka and many others. Ms. Slywynska has enjoyed singing in operas with the Highlands Opera Studio, Opera Chai and operas at the Glenn Gould School of Music. She has also sung in the Canadian Opera Company Chorus. Olenka has recently earned a Masters in Pedagogy from the University of Toronto and is presently teaching voice.

OTAVA - The Otava singers, originally from Ternopil, Ukraine and currently residing in the Greater Toronto area, is a group who sings and performs a creative fusion of traditional Ukrainian and Lemko folk songs with a modern twist, as well as carols and hayivky, Cossack songs and songs of a spiritual nature. They have graced audiences in Poland, Germany, France, Belgium, Italy and more recently, in Canada.

PAVLO FONDERA - Pavlo Fondera is a Ukrainian musician, singer, choirmaster, librettist, poet and playwright. He was born in Zhytomyr, Ukraine and holds degrees from Kyiv National University of Culture and Arts. Pavlo performed and toured both as a choir member and as a soloist with chamber choir “Kredo”, Ukrainian academic ensemble “Kalyna”, Kyiv municipal academic opera theatre, and the Kyiv symphonic orchestra and choir. Currently he resides in Toronto and is the Choirmaster-conductor of the Canadian Bandurist Capella, the artistic director and conductor of the musical group "Crescendo", the Conductor of the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Holy Protection of the Mother of God choir, a solo artist, as well as a voice and piano instructor.

POLANIE BAND – Based in the beautiful Niagara Region, performing all over Ontario. Founded in 1981 by Stan Popiel, leader of the group and his brother Joe Popiel. The band has performed and entertained at countless weddings, anniversaries, and zabavas over those years and also participates at the Roncesvalles Polish Festival. Performances are in Polish, Ukrainian and English. Current band members are Joe Popiel, Liviu Rusnak, and Jarek Wszolek - leader of the band.

ROSSA TRIO - Sonia Kulycky, Natalia Bedik, and Nina Semchyshyn of Montreal’s “Rossa trio” continue to share their passion and joy in singing together through various performances across North America. Their vocal blend and smooth range bring beautiful harmonies to life with a dynamic musical interpretation that includes selections from their first CD release. Featured in the SPIVANKA documentary produced (Mo-D productions) and Nasha Kasha radio, Rossa is excited to share the stage with all performers at this year’s festival and, in true Montréal style, wish everyone a “Bon Festival!”

Website: https://poca-rossa.wixsite.com/rossa-poca-montreal

ROYAL REGIMENT OF CANADA - The Band of The Royal Regiment of Canada, based at Fort York in Toronto, has a continuous tradition reaching back to 1863. A decree by Queen Victoria authorized the Regiment to wear the distinctive scarlet uniform and bearskin cap of the "Guards" on all ceremonial occasions. The Band appears at various functions across Canada and internationally. In recent years the band has performed at The Stone Mountain Highland Games in Atlanta, and tattoos in Gander and Victoria as well as appearances at music festivals in Quebec City and Krakow, Poland. The Band is under the musical direction of Captain Kevin Anderson, CD and performs by kind permission of LCol Peter Martinis, MB, CD, Commanding Officer.

SOKOLY - Organized in the early 1990 the Sokoly musical group gained momentum and was well received not only in its native land but also in Canada, USA, Italy, Austria, Germany, Slovakia, Poland and others. Sokoly made their contribution to the recognition of Ukraine in the world community. Wherever Soloky or Falcons may be, they always return to their nest – Ukraine. The creative work of the group always finds feedback and support from governmental authorities and patrons. The 2 singers participating today are Mykhailo Matsyalko – the founder and artistic manager of the group and People’s Artist of Ukraine, and Maria Shalaykevych – composer, solo singer, and also People’s Artist of Ukraine.

SOLOWAY - Soloway is a Ukrainian music band from Philadelphia, USA. All participants are originally from Ukraine who continue preserving their love for music and Ukraine. Their repertoire includes Ukrainian contemporary and traditional pieces as well as today’s popular music hits while performing at festivals, fundraisers, concerts, events, birthdays, weddings, and more. Most recently, they performed with famous pop stars from Ukraine, some of which include Kazka, Oleh Skrypka, and Iryna Bilyk. Their mission is to deliver quality performance, create a festive atmosphere and an unforgettable experience.

Website: www.solowayband.com

STARDUST JAZZ DUO - The Stardust Jazz Duo Zhanna and Victor, have been performing jazz music together for more than over a year at different venues in the Greater Toronto Area. They love to perform Jazz Standards,like" Fly me to the Moon, My Foolish Heart, Stardust, Summer Time'' and other great titles. They are currently taking Ukrainian folk songs, and writing arrangements in different jazz styles. They have been inspired by Lina Kostenko's poetry and have put her words to music. Most recently, they have performed at," C'est What Restaurant," for a very successful fundraiser for recent Ukrainian refugees as sponsored by The Ukrainian Canadian Congress, Toronto Branch. They look forward to performing for you with a wonderful program of music.

ST. DEMETRIUS BANDURA ENSEMBLE - The St. Demetrius Bandura Ensemble and School are based at the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of St. Demetrius in Etobicoke, Ontario. The Bandura School was founded in 1983 and is beginning its 38th year of providing weekly instruction on bandura technique, theory, style and performance, to students of all ages. The Ensemble is directed by Ron Demeda. It performs regularly at local concerts and functions in the Toronto area. The ensemble has a recorded CD entitled “Sounds of the Bandura” – a collection of 26 tracks including pieces from Traditional Ukrainian, Liturgical, Classical, Popular and other genres. This year, the ensemble will be represented by a small group of the senior members performing as a quartet.

Website: www.stdemetriusuoc.ca/bandura.html

TORONTO BANDURIST ENSEMBLE - A Toronto based bandura ensemble playing on concert banduras directed by Victor Mishalow that performs instrumentally and with chorus.

TRIO LIRA - Roma, Vera and Ivanka came together in Toronto to form Trio LIRA almost 10 years ago and have performed at various venues in many parts of Ontario, including Ukrainian festivals, concerts and have recorded several CD’s. They were recently invited to perform in Ukraine, but plans got sidelined due to the pandemic. Instead, they submitted a video for an online competition in Ukraine last fall and won the Grand Prize! Since each member has family in Ukraine, they are, like the rest of the world, horrified by what is going on. One of the most positive things they can do to honour their heritage at this time, is to share their music. They hope you enjoy it!

UKRAINA DANCE ENSEMBLE - The Greater Toronto Area-based Ukraina Dance Ensemble embodies all the qualities deeply embedded within Ukrainian culture — incredible passion, eternal striving for perfection, a love of freedom, and the rare ability to express oneself through music, movement and traditional rituals and customs. Passion makes this dance troupe unique — a passion for Ukrainian culture, a passion for dance and, above all, a passion for the human spirit.

Website: www.ukrainadance.ca

VANGUARD MARCHING BAND - The Ukrainian Youth Ensembles, Vanguard Concert/Marching Band under the direction of Musical Director/Conductor Mr. Roman Yasinsky is an educational artistic ensemble in the Greater Toronto area, which functions to preserve the ideals of Ukrainian musical cultural. The repertoire of the band includes a variety of Ukrainian music: religious, folk, classical and contemporary. The band itself has traveled extensively throughout Canada, the United States and Europe. The Vanguard Concert/Marching Band consists of three distinct sections: Concert/Marching Band; Colour Guard and Junior Drum Corps. The band uniform is regarded with great respect. The stylization and colours of the uniform are symbolic of the military band traditions throughout Ukrainian history.

VASYL POPADIUK - Vasyl Popadiuk is a classically trained violinist born in Lviv, Ukraine, now living in Ottawa and performing internationally. In addition to appearing as a violin soloist, Popadiuk has been the dynamic lead player in the ensemble Papa Duke, a group that plays a fusion of eastern European melodies in an energetic style mixing classic pop, rock palm, jazz and traditional Slavic and gypsy music. Aside from stage performances at numerous events, he complements his violin playing with piano accompaniment for the national ballet of Canada. Popadiuk is quickly winning over audiences with his intense virtuoso performances. Over the years he and his fellow musicians have performed in concerts and music festivals in many countries, including USA, Canada, Italy, France, Germany, Jordan, Russia, Poland, Mexico and Ukraine.

Website: www.vasylpopadiuk.com

VERONIKA KOSTYUK - Veronika Kostyuk is a Ukrainian artist, sand animator and student who is studying in a Canadian college on the animation program. For more than 10 years she has been surprising people with her talent of sand art, which she has been performing on variety of international and all Ukrainian festivals and competitions where she received Grand Prix and a lot of awards, also she had a chance to participate on “Ukraine’s got talent” show where in 2016 she was performing live and went through semifinal. For a long time, Veronika has been performing on the stage of Kharkiv’s Philharmonic, in combination with organ music, she was giving the audience unforgettable stories drawn with sand.

VICTOR MISHALOW - Born in Sydney, Australia, Victor Mishalow graduated from the Sydney University (1984) majoring in Music. He continued studies at the Kyiv Conservatory, Ukraine and in February 2009 successfully defended his PhD at the Kharkiv State Academy of Culture. Mishalow began studying the bandura, a 68 stringed Ukrainian folk instrument with Peter Deriashnyj, and Hryhory Bazhul in Sydney in 1970. In 1979 he received a scholarship to study at the Kyiv Conservatory, Ukraine. Mishalow has performed widely throughout Australia, North America, South America and Europe. He has numerous recordings and books to his credit. Mishalow has been awarded the title of Merited Artist of Ukraine in 1999 and in 2009 he was awarded the Ukrainian Order of Merit.

VIRA PRUT - Vira Prut is a 29-year-old singer originally from Ukraine. For the last decade, she has been living in Toronto. She sang in various festivals in Ukraine and won many singing competitions. Vira graduated from a music school in Ukraine where she sang in the choir and played saxophone in the school orchestra. She was also a member of a well-known Ukrainian singing school named Apelsin and attended a dancing school named Peremoga where she had the chance to travel all over the world. Her favourite song composer is Volodymyr Ivasyuk. In Canada, Vira participated in Vyshyvanka Day and was a finalist in the Miss Ukrainian Canada competition. Vira will be singing to celebrate the strength of fellow Ukrainians who are bravely fighting right now.

YAVIR – Toronto-based Yavir School of Ukrainian Dance is dedicated to fostering the art and joy of Ukrainian dance in children and youth in a community environment. It has evolved from its humble beginnings in 1962 and emerged as a highly professional dance school. The goals of Yavir School are to provide its dancers and audience with an experience that is exciting, inspirational, and educational while encouraging interest in Ukrainian dance and culture. The School gratefully acknowledges the support of the community of St. Demetrius Ukrainian Catholic Church and is honoured by the artistic direction of Krista Samborsky.

Website: www.yavir.ca

ZIRKA - With deep Canadian-Ukrainian roots and a passion for traditional Ukrainian music, the ZIRKA band from the Greater Toronto Hamilton area, continually strives to create a distinctive lively zabava sound that pleases listeners of all ages. ZIRKA loves to entertain, to create a party atmosphere and to have fun! The band looks forward to bringing that special “energy” to this year’s festival. Last year, ZIRKA recorded a new CD- This is Us and released 5 new videos. The members of ZIRKA are: Morris Hucal (lead vocals, accordion), John Hucal (trumpet, vocals), Katherine Hucal (saxophones, vocals), Bill Hawryschuk (drums) Karen Aniol (violin and vocals) and Yurko Mychaluk (guitar and vocals).

Website: www.zirkamusic.com

ZUBRIVKA - Zubrivka is a group of experienced musicians and singers from the Toronto area, playing a mix of classic Ukrainian folk songs on acoustic instruments. They are delighted to be returning to the festival this year after a 5-year break, in support of Ukraine and the Ukrainian-Canadian community.