A NIGHT OF WORLD MUSIC: A MIX OF UKRAINIAN FOLKLORE WITH THE NEW GENRES
by: Myroslava Stadnyk
An initiative to showcase the Ukrainian folk music with a modern twist came to light on Thursday, May 15 – on a rainy evening at theToronto’s local venue, the Placebo Space.
Musicians of a Ukrainian descent, Yana (Yanina Bilyk) – a songwriter, vocalist and a piano player, and Stacey Yerofeyeva – DoVira’s band lead singer, came up with the idea to share the stage to perform Eastern European folk repertoire rearranged with influences of the newer musical genres, such as contemporary, jazz, rock and electro.
“Our goal is to provide the Canadian audience with an opportunity to hear the beauty of the Ukrainian folklore in a unique way,” said Yerofeyeva. “We want to express the cultural aspect of the Ukrainian music in an open, elastic form.” Yerofeyeva added that she has the desire to bring to the stage the music of the present day, which is also influenced by other cultures – such as Polish, Irish and Indian. With that concept in mind, DoVira brings together musicians of a variety of ethnic backgrounds.
“Both, Stacey and myself, find that colours of the traditional melodies are most vibrant when combined with the contemporary style,” saidYana. “Both of our repertoires range in different styles. However, our passion for the Ukrainian traditions and culture has the most evident influence on the music we play.”
Yanaalso composes her own songs in a number of different music styles, which she has been performing at the Placebo Space. Her music reflects a lot of what has been happening inUkraineduring the revolution of the past months.Yanaalso added that she hopes to showcase the thought of multiculturalism through her performances. She wants to convey the notion that traditions of all cultures matter in the present day. “That is why we call it ‘world music,’ as a genre which symbolizes the celebration of all cultures,”Yanaexplained.
The musical night featuringYanaand DoVira performances was filled with songs ranging from very old traditional style, to the music composed by the artists themselves – both in English and Ukrainian. Hearing them play the music brought an enjoyable experience, as the audience participated and beamed with happiness as the familiar songs were played with interesting sounds and rhythms.
“In the coming days, we plan to continue holding joint concerts at the localTorontovenues,” saidYana. She also hopes to travel to other Canadians provinces, as she is in the midst of composing her next album. In particular,Yanawill be going on a cross-Canada tour in October, to play as an opening artist as part of the “Telnyuk Sisters” music project.
Yana is also currently preparing for the next concert, which will be taking place inToronto,ONon Wednesday, July 16, 2014. The show will include performances by a variety of artists, including DoVira, held at a fantastic venue – the Lula Lounge by the address1585 Dundas Street West.
For more information on the upcoming events, as well as samples ofYana’s music, please visit: www.yanabilyk.com
Information on DoVira musical ensemble, can be found through their website: www.staceyy.com/dovira.html
