Montreal Ukrainian Festival Montreal Ukrainian Festival

Festival 2010 Programming

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Montreal Ukrainian Festival 2010 Performers

Vasyl Popadiuk

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Vasyl Popadiuk

The journey for Vasyl Popadiuk from Ukraine to Toronto has been one of musical adventure, starting at Kiev's Lysenko school for gifted children at the tender age of 7, and continuing at Ukraine's national Tchaikovsky Conservatory of Music from age 18. Vasyl Popadiuk's father, himself a renowned composer and pan flute player, dreamt of his son following in his footsteps as a flutist but at the age of four Vasyl Jr chose to play the piano. By age six he had discovered and fallen in love with the violin — an outcome predicted by a stranger before his birth — that love has remained steadfast through the years.

Popadiuk has toured with many prestigious troupes, including Ukraine's Hopak National Ensemble, Kiev's Gypsy Music Theatre Company, and the Nazarov Music Theatre Company of Moscow with whom he performed for many international dignitaries including the late King Hussein of Jordan. He was asked to accompany Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachev and his wife as part of the cultural entourage during a state visit to Spain where he performed for Queen Sofia. His many fans include Don Was, Tom Cochrane, Ian Gillan (whose solo album Vasyl was asked to play on) and Jesse Cook. In the past he often appeared as special guest to Mediterranean guitarist Pavlo in Canada, the U.S., and the UK. More recently he has made several appearances as special guest for world-music guitarist Jesse Cook, and has been special guesting for celebrated Canadian tenor John McDermott in Toronto last summer. His tour also included stops in Miami, Nashville, New York and Moscow.

For more information about Vasyl Popadiuk please visit http://www.papaduke.com.

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Iryna Zinkovska

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Iryna Zinkovska

Iryna Zinkovska — Merited Artist of Ukraine, recipient of awards from Ukrainian and International pop music festivals and contests (Svitiazh River Wave Festival in Lutsk, Children’s World Festival in Budapest, Black Sea Festival, Yalta and others). Winner of the Mark Cheremshyna literary award.

Author of the Through distance to love collection of poems, she releases the I — Like a Swan album in 2001, the I will call you CD in 2005 and the Delicate Song CD in 2009. Her songs have won the All-Ukraine Radio Song of the Year award multiple times, have been included in compilations of top pop songs and get regular airplay on Ukrainian radio stations.

In 2000, Iryna Zinkovska was presented with the Ukrainian President’s Award, 2nd order, for her contribution to the development and popularization of Ukrainian song. The singer regularly appears on television programs.

Iryna Zinkovska’s voice is a wonderful, melodic alto that is particularly resonant at the lower register. This lovely singer with the powerful, enchanting voice and generous soul has a many-faceted repertoire from which she selects songs depending on the whims of her heart. She sings songs of her parents, of her motherland, of love, that most wonderful of feelings, and of ideals that should be present in all artists’ souls, transmitting warmth, joy and hope through her art. Iryna often plays tours in Ukraine and in neighboring countries. The Ukrainian tours Family, I Believe in Ukraine and My Constellations included Dmytro and Nazar Yaremchuk (the latter being the composer of a number of Iryna’s songs), while From Heart to Heart was a solo tour that included the provincial capitals as well as many smaller cities and towns, all of which remain in her memory and in her heart, as wherever Iryna may play in Ukraine, one finds people who care deeply for Ukraine and who love Ukrainian music.

For more information about Iryna Zinkovska please visit http://www.zinkovska.com.

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Duo Malvy

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Duo Malvy

The Montreal children’s’ duo Malvy (Oxana Senkiv, musical director) is comprised of two magically talented girls: Vitalia Khmil and Stephania Nazarov. In the latter half of 2008, the two were among the performers on the Let’s Sing Ukrainian! educational and recreational CD, which has gained favour among children in Canada, the USA, Ukraine, Poland and Russia.

The duo’s debut performance was in June, 2009 at a Benefit Reception for the Montreal Ukrainian Festival. Since then, Malvy have been irreplaceable participants in various cultural events organized by Montreal’s Ukrainian community, notably the 2009 Ukrainian Festival, the Volodymyr Ivasiuk Memorial concert, the annual Christmas Carol concert, the Ukrainian-Hungarian Dinner and, more recently, the Varenyky Hodown. The girls complement their duo performances by studying solo instrument performance and by performing in larger vocal ensembles. In the short time they have been together, Malvy have developed a wide ranging repertoire comprised of dozens of songs. Their clear voices and wonderful sense of rhythm, combined with an innate artistry and youthful exuberance make for performances of a high caliber and for a promising, creative future for the budding young duo.

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Oxana Senkiv

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Oxana Senkiv

Oxana Senkiv is a very talented singer and songwriter, who has written, composed, and recorded all her own material. Most of the music and lyrics stem from her youth and initially came to fruition on her first CD in 2007 and continued on a second CD release in 2008. Although originally born in an encampment Russia, this did not deter the Ukrainian atmosphere at home. She moved to Ukraine, where she went to school and participated in various musical activities. Oxana has been living in Montreal since 1991. Her albums have been recorded in Ukraine. She has performed at various festivals, charitable events and concerts.

For more information about Oxana Senkiv please visit http://www.oxanasenkiv.com.

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Auresia

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Auresia

AURESIA — nominated for Favorite World Artist at the 2010 Canadian Independent Music Awards, this Montreal based singer is rising up in the Canadian Music, Reggae and Ukrainian Scene. Born of Ukrainian decent in Edmonton, Alberta, she has been charming audiences since the age of 3. Her style is a new breed of Reggae for the urban soul; deep roots riddims swathed by the melodies of Auresia’s sweet and haunting voice. Through her intricate melodies, beautiful harmonies she combines her Ukrainian roots, combination of world, soul, r&b and conscious lyrics to hear a sound uniquely her own.

Auresia and her 5 piece band always puts on a great show, filled with high-energy and positive vibes, she captivates the audience with her meditative vocals and always leaves them dancing.

Auresia has toured across Canada, US, parts of Europe and Jamaica. Her debut album, Auresia can be found at HMV, Archambault, Indigo, and online at Itunes and auresia.com or myspace.com/auresia.

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Charlene Todaschuk

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Charlene Todaschuk

CHARLENE TODASCHUK, born and raised in Winnipeg and a working artist living in Montreal, is one of the TODASCHUK SISTERS singing duo along with her sister Rosemarie. They have captivated audiences throughout North America. Some of their performances include: Bicentennial Celebrations in Los Angeles, Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival in Dauphin, Pan American Games, the Pacific National Exhibition in Vancouver, Winnipeg’s Folklorama, festivals and celebrations in Montreal, Toronto and New York. Rosemarie and Charlene have also been singing the Canadian and American anthems at football and baseball games for the past few seasons.

The TODASCHUK SISTERS have two recording albums of traditional, contemporary and original Ukrainian songs to their credit as well as their third entitled “The Spirit of Ukrainian Christmas with the Todaschuk Sisters”.

For more information about Charlene Todaschuk please visit http://www.CharleneTodaschuk.com.

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Wolodymyr Mota

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Bandurist Wolodymyr Mota

The Bandura is Ukraine's national instrument. In Montreal since 1952, Mr. Mota, basso, has performed in numerous concerts, in churches, on TV, in 1967 EXPO and other commemorative events in Montreal. He performed for some parliamentarians in Quebec and in Ottawa, as well as in Ukraine's Embassy in Ottawa. He also performed in other parts of Canada, in United States, England and Ukraine. In 2008 he released his first CD and now is working on his second. For his artistic activity he has received many recognitions, including one from the President of Ukraine, in 2008. He continues to perform regularly — for the sheer joy of sharing Ukrainian songs, which has been at the core of his life. At 83, he is the Festival's most senior soloist performer.

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Troyanda Ukrainian Dance Ensemble

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Troyanda Ukrainian Dance Ensemble

The Troyanda Ukrainian Dance Ensemble was founded in 1989 by two dedicated and enthusiastic Ukrainian dancers, Tanya Harasymowycz-Kutash and Bohdan Klymchuk. Their goal was to develop a local Ukrainian dance ensemble that would strive towards a high level of artistic achievement. The ensemble devotes its rehearsals to cultural development, exercise and recreation, while promoting excellence and creativity. It encourages both traditional and contemporary choreography. The ensemble consists of 30 dancers. Their repertoire consists of 12 dances which focus mainly on the central and western regions of Ukraine.

The ensemble has thematic (storyline) dances, comedy dances, sword dances, modern Ukrainian dances, a gypsy dance, a lyrical dance, and the famous Hopak, just to mention a few. Some noted performances where the Troyanda dancers have performed are: Drummondville International folk festival (the largest folk festival in all of Canada); New York State (the Catskills); Man and His World (Montreal); and Place des Arts (Montreal's cultural arts center). Troyanda is a well known and respected dance ensemble in Montreal and Quebec.

For more information about Troyanda Ukrainian Dance Ensemble please visit http://www.troyanda.net.

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Marunczak Ukrainian Dance Ensemble

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Marunczak Ukrainian Dance Ensemble

The Marunczak Ukrainian Dance Ensemble has been entertaining for over 45 years under the renowned tutelage of Peter Marunczak Sr. We have performed across Canada, the United States and have recently completed an Eastern European tour. Besides our regular performances in Montreal and the Drummondville Folk Festival, we have recently entertained at several key events at Canadian Museum of Civilization in Hull.

Recent critiques of our Dances by “The Globe & Mail” said they “…showed vigour, rhythm, grace and precision, dazzling the audience”. Our “Ensemble” was judged the “best” from among four Ukrainian Groups competing in a recent festival of music, song and dance held at Toronto’s Central Technical Auditorium.

“The Marunczak Ukrainian Dance Ensemble is unique in that they have incorporated a modern touch into the colourful and classical, but traditional dances…” excerpt from “Cultures Galore Canada-Fete Canada 1996, Ottawa”.

For more information about Marunczak Ukrainian Dance Ensemble please visit http://www.marunczak.com.

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Emilia Harasymowycz

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Emilia Harasymowycz

Born in Montreal, Emilia Harasymowycz is a vibrant and energetic seven-year old. From a young age she has shown her interest in Ukrainian folk dancing and singing, and has been performing since the age of three at different Ukrainian cultural events: the annual Christmas and Easter Bazaars, traditional SUM Kutya, and at the most recent festival fund raiser. Emilia has two younger siblings, and also enjoys playing the piano.

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“Dzvinochok” Children’s Dance Ensemble

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“Dzvinochok” Dance Ensemble

The “Dzvinochok” children’s dance ensemble was formed in 2008. Zoya Syniuk, the ensemble’s artistic director and choreographer is known in Ukraine for being the director of the children’s Model and adult National ballroom dance troupes. The “Dzvinochok” dancers, aged four to seven, perform ballroom (waltz, tango and cha-cha) and Ukrainian folk dances. The ensemble, with its 14 performers and dazzling costumes, has added plenty of colour to many events put on by Montreal’s Ukrainian community, sharing its joy and exuberance with the audience.

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Chaika Performing Ensemble

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Chaika Performing Ensemble

Chaika has thrilled audience’s worldwide and won recognition and praise with their memorable performances throughout Canada, the United States and Europe.

Created in 1957 under the auspices of the Hamilton Branch of the Ukrainian National Federation, the Chaika Performing Ensemble has been dedicated to the development of Ukrainian folk song and dance. In its 53rd year, the school comprised of 100 performers, ranging in age from 6 to 30, continues to help preserve Canada’s multicultural mosaic.

The energy and spirit of Chaika is reflected in its choreography — integrating classical ballet with Ukrainian folk stage theatre. In addition to Chaika’s dancing accomplishments, the ensemble has also achieved fame for its choral work and has released two albums.

For more information about the Chaika Performing Ensemble please visit http://www.chaika.ca.

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Anna-Maria Entertainment

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Anna-Maria Entertainment

Anna-Maria Entertainment is an organization of musicians, vocalists, and organizers who have been performing at various events from festivals, weddings, parties, and more. The advantage that we have over other groups is the experience that each member brings. With years of experience playing at various events, each member knows how to provide the best music, atmosphere and the energy to every event.

Anna-Maria Entertainment is composed of accomplished vocalists and musicians that have a vast repertoire of music ranging from traditional folk, recent Ukrainian and American music. In addition, we have musicians that are true professionals with their individual instruments.

Anna-Maria Entertainment offers a tremendous range of services, performing at venues like Verkhovyna Ukrainian Festival in 2009, Long Island Ukrainian Heritage Festival in 2008, a concert series dedicated to Kvitka Cisyk, and a musical series “Ukrainian Vechory” in New York. In addition, we provided tours of humorist Gryst Drapak, singers Ivo Bobul and Ivan Popovich.

For more information about Anna-Maria Entertainment please visit http://www.annamariaus.com.

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Vidlunnya Choir

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Vidlunnya Choir

Since 1995 the Vidlunnya Choir of S.U.M has been a center of Ukrainian musical life in Montréal. Having earned the admiration of audiences for its sophisticated interpretation of the choral compositions of Western Ukraine, Central Ukraine, and Eastern Ukraine as well as folk music of Ukrainians living in Eastern Europe, the choir continuously develops its repertoire. The unfailing participant of many community concerts, Vidlunnya also performs its own solo concerts and collaborates with other choral groups of Montréal outside of the Ukrainian community to promote Ukrainian choral and vocal tradition.

This year’s performance at the Ukrainian festival showcases the traditional humorous dialog in folk singing. Selections performed are masterful choral arrangements by E.Kozak, M.Krechko, P.Yarosh, and O.Koshetz that will delight the musical taste of those who enjoy emotional, theatrical, engaging singing performance.

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Oksana Kotskovitch

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Oksana Kotskovitch

Oksana Kotskovitch was born in Lviv, where she studied music focusing on piano performance. For the past 20 years, she has lived in Montreal, participating in various vocal groupings including choirs, duets and trios. Some recent appearances have been as a solo vocalist. Her repertoire, consisting of folk and contemporary Ukrainian songs, showcases her wonderfully clear and dulcet soprano.

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“Mria” Ukrainian dance ensemble

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“Mria” Ukrainian dance ensemble

The “Mria” Ukrainian dance ensemble was founded by Elena Vaselenko in 2005 at St. Sophie's Cathedral. During the intervening years, the troupe has enjoyed impressive success, growing together both personally and professionally. Although traditional dance remains at the core of their performances, their repertoire includes other styles such as Latin dance, the tango and hip-hop.

The ensemble, whose dancers range in age from 7 to 20, won the “Crystal Ball” competition for young performers in 2006. “Mria” has performed at various charitable events, concerts and festivals in Montreal, Toronto and Ottawa. A good deal of its success is due to the efforts of choreographer Diana Guseva as well as to the troupe members' passion and devotion to dance.

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Ensemble VOKAL

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Ensemble VOKAL

The next generation of young, talented Canadian Ukrainian singers from Montreal, ensemble VOKAL have been performing together at various events, most recently with Canadian Idol's Theresa Sokyrka. Capturing the essence of Ukrainian song in beautiful, 3-part harmony, the purity of their voices can be heard on the recently released Sheptycky school CD.

Introducing Dorotka, Dania, Natalia, Adelia, Sonia, and Katrusia.

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Trio Harmonia

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Trio Harmonia

The Montreal Ukrainian Festival 2010 is the Harmonia Trio's debut performance. Olya Basalayeva, former soloist at the Dnipropetrovsk Opera Theatre in Ukraine, continues her career as a chorister with le Chœur de l'Orchestre symphonique de Montréal. Oxana Senkiv is a songwriter, who performs as soloist and in vocal groups. Helena Waverchuck is a classical singer who sings locally and abroad as a soloist as well as a chorister. She is a regular performer at this annual event. The goal of the ensemble is to popularize Ukrainian classical, folk and contemporary songs.

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Andrij Svirsa

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Andrij Svirsa

Andrij Svirsa is a graduate of the Donetsk Conservatory (voice). He has toured in China and twice received awards at international jazz festivals. Svirsa is capable of singing in a wide range of styles: from operatic arias and jazz stylings to pop and folk. He is even capable of performing female opera parts with his falsetto. Andrij has given solo concerts before large audiences many times. He is also a composer, lyricist/poet and performs his own works.

For more information about Andrij Svirsa please visit http://www.andys.com.ua.

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“Latin Sensation”

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“Latin Sensation”

“Latin Sensation” was born in October 16 2009, and it was founded and constituted by Julian Candelo and Nadia Patricia Fajardo. “Latin Sensation” is a group of dancers that wants to promote the Latin culture in Montreal. The great variety of rhythms of dance such as Salsa, Pachanga, Boogaloo, Chachacha, Tango, Milonga, Paso Doble, Merengue, and Bachata, are part of their artistic repertory. “Latin Sensation” will also be represented by a talented songwriter, composer and singer Leticia Rubi. She recorded a CD and 3 videoclips with “REMEMBRANZAS” group.

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