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Bayda

DETROIT – The all-male Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus (Kapelia Bandurystiv im. T. Shevchenka) announces the release of its newest and most anticipated recording - Bayda. With over 60 minutes of music, this recording takes you on a musical journey of Ukraine from the historic kozak fortress of Prince Bayda to the banks of the mighty Dnipro River. This recording is offered on compact disc only and is available for purchase as of December 6, 2006. Select composers on the recording include: O. Koshyts, H. Khotkevych, M. Mykhailov, H. Kytasty, M. Lysenko, and O. Mahlay. This recording is yet another example of the wide-ranging repertoire of the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus (UBC).

The title song of the recording, Bayda, tells a story of Prince Dmytro "Bayda" Vyshnevetsky – the first kozak otaman in the history of Ukraine and a founding member of the kozak nobility. He was taken prisoner by the Turks and executed in Istanbul in 1563. Hnat Khotkevych's orchestration sets the scene for the showdown between Bayda and the Turkish sultan. Ukrainian and Turkish musical themes appear throughout the song. Solo performances by Andrew Soroka as the Sultan and John Zinchuk as Bayda bring the story together.

Other selections from the recording include: Song of Kozak Nechay, Hamalia Suite, Medley of Ukrainian Dance Songs, Yatran, Song of the Gray Cuckoo, The Horn-Owl On The Grave, and The Mighty Dnipro River. Many solo performances by Teodozij Pryshlak, Ihor Kusznir, Ihor Stasiuk, Taras Zakordonski, Victor Sheweli, and Mychail Newmerzyckyj are highlighted on the recording in addition to a bandura solo by Orest Sklierenko and smaller bandura ensemble performances. The bandura is featured on two instrumental (bandura only) tracks - Song Dance and The Kozak Road.

This recording was made possible in part by many supporters of the UBC. All sponsors are listed in the CD booklet.

The first public release will be held in Parma, Ohio on Saturday, December 9. The recording is available to purchase online with a credit card at www.bandura.org. To order by check, please call 734.953.0305.

Founded in 1918, the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus has a long and proud history of representing Ukrainian bandura and choral music on the international stage. Boasting a repertoire of more than 500 songs, this internationally celebrated and award-winning ensemble has captivated audiences in major concert halls in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Ukraine since immigrating to North America from Europe in 1949. They have also performed for such noted personalities as former President Richard Nixon, former President Ronald Reagan, movie star Jack Palance, and former President of Ukraine Leonid Kravchuk. Most recently, the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus was featured at the internationally renowned Stratford Summer Music Festival, and presented Bandura Christmas International with Metropolitan Opera soloist Paul Plishka.

From the UBC Press Packet, 2006

SONG OF KOZAK NECHAY
Ukrainian folk song - O. Koshyts
soloists: Ihor Kusznir and Ihor Stasiuk
17th century kozak leader Danylo Nechay protected the Ukrainian peasantry from the Polish nobility, working hand in hand with the famous Bohdan Khmelnytsky. Nechay died heroically in battle in 1651 while engaged against a numerically superior Polish force. For his heroism and ideals, Nechay has been glorified in many historical songs.

HAMALIA SUITE
words by T. Shevchenko / music by M. Lysenko
"The courageous Otaman Hamalia gathered his men and took to the sea. While sailing the open seas seeking glory, he saved our brethren from Turkish captivity."
There is No Wind Nor Waves
soloist: Orest Sklierenko (bandura)
The Blue Sea
Our Dear God
soloist: Taras Zakordonski
bandura ensemble: Bohdan Koshil, Zenon Krislaty, YuriyMetulynsky, Anatoli Murha, Andrij Sklierenko, Orest Sklierenko, Roman Skypakewych
Let Us Hear Our Glory
Onward to Turkey!

SONG DANCE (instrumental piece)
H. Kytasty
Skillfully weaving an old folk song, Hryhory Kytasty, the beloved former artistic director of the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus, highlights the wondrous sounds of the bandura.

MEDLEY OF UKRAINIAN DANCE SONGS
M. Mykhailov
soloist: Victor Sheweli
The Crane . . . The Noise and the Clamor . . . From Kyiv to Luben. Three merry dance pieces driven by the fast fingers of the bandura players.

BAYDA
H. Khotkevych
soloists: Andrew Soroka (the Sultan) and John Zinchuk (Bayda)
Darius Polanski (percussion)
Prince Dmytro "Bayda" Vyshnevetsky was the first kozak otaman in the history of Ukraine - a founding member of the kozak nobility. In or about 1552 he built a fort on the island of Mala Khortytsia on the Dnipro River, recruiting warriors to battle against the Tatars. He was taken prisoner by the Turks and executed in Istanbul in 1563. Bandurist Hnat Khotkevych's rich orchestration sets the scene for the showdown between Bayda and the Turkish sultan. Ukrainian and Turkish musical themes appear, the freedom-loving kozaks mock the Sultan, and Bayda is defiant until the very end.

Captured by the Turks, the Sultan makes Bayda an offer: I will give you your freedom if you stop your military campaigns and take my daughter's hand in marriage. Bayda responds by expressing his displeasure with the appearance of the daughter, and then proclaiming that the Sultan's faith is damned. Outraged by this insult, the Sultan orders that Bayda be tied and hung on a large hook by his chest. Bayda, as a last dying gesture, asks for a bow and arrow in order to shoot a dove for the Sultan's dinner. The Sultan foolishly obliges, and Bayda finds a new target: the Sultan's head.

THE HORN-OWL ON THE GRAVE
Ukrainian Folk Song - O. Mahlay
soloists: Teodozij Pryshlak and Andrew Soroka
The battle-weary kozaks lament their misfortune. While they notice their rusty swords and faulty muskets, they proclaim that their hearts still do not fear the enemy. But they are saddened again: "We once ruled our lands, but will no longer. Our kozak glory, however, shall not be forgotten."

THE KOZAK ROAD (instrumental piece)
O. Mahlay
bandura ensemble: Bohdan Koshil, Zenon Krislaty, Oleh Mahlay, Yuriy Metulynsky, Anatoli Murha, Andrij Sklierenko, Orest Sklierenko, Roman Skypakewych
These four folk songs chronicle the many roads traveled by Ukrainian kozaks. The first song (The Sycamore by the Water) remembers the fate of Ukrainian kozak regiments who in the 1710's took part in the draining of the marshes and digging the canals for the expansion of St. Petersburg, Russia. The human toll was great as many would say for centuries that "St. Petersburg was built on the bones of the Ukrainian kozaks." The kozak spirit cannot be defeated, as The Raging Blowing Winds guide them forward. The merry Kubanskiy Dance is from a region southeast of present day Ukraine where many Ukrainian kozaks emigrated after the destruction of the Zaporizka Sich in 1775 by Catherine the Great. Our journey concludes with the popular Ukrainian song The Reapers On The Hill as the warriors march on.

YATRAN
Ukrainian folk song - O. Mahlay
soloist: Mychail Newmerzyckyj
The Yatran River in central Ukraine is the setting for this song depicting Ukraine's struggle under Polish serfdom. While the beautiful young girl has a family and a wonderful home, the orphaned young man laments that the steppe is his matchmaker, his sword and pipe his only family, and his gray steed his brother.

SONG OF THE GRAY CUCKOO
words and music - P. Nishchinsky
soloist: Teodozij Pryshlak
The cuckoo called at dawn while the Ukrainian kozaks sang their mournful song in Turkish captivity. They beseeched the wind to carry them over the sea, back to their beloved Ukraine. Instead, when their song is heard by the Turkish Sultan, he orders their chains be doubled.

THE MIGHTY DNIPRO RIVER
words by T. Shevchenko / music by H. Kytasty
Coursing its way through the heart of Ukraine, the Dnipro River has witnessed many events in the history of its people. This popular and moving adaptation of Taras Shevchenko's poem depicts the grand and mighty river - a metaphor for the will and strength of Ukrainians.

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European Tour 2003

The all-male Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus announces the release of their 31st North American produced album, coinciding with their 2004 Spring Concert Series in Syracuse, Hartford, New York City, and Philadelphia. European Tour: Historic Live Recordings presents an exciting program of select folk songs, and the exotic sounds of the bandura from the Chorus' 2003 European concert tour. Select composers include: J. Brahms, C, Gounod, H. Kytasty, M. Leontovich, J. Newton and O. Mahlay. This album is available on compact disc only.

This CD is unique in that it brings together a compilation of powerful performances captured at various concert halls over four countries. Emmy award winning Re-recording engineer Orest Sushko, who is also a member of the chorus, served as the mix engineer for this live project. Orest received an Emmy award in 2001 for outstanding mixing on the TV mini-series Nuremberg staring Alec Baldwin. Alex Kytasty, a Detroit based freelance recording engineer handled the location recording. Design and layout are credited to Darius Polanski, and production by Toronto based RDR Music Group. Executive Producer is Anatoli Murha.

From the UBC Press Packet, 2003

PLAY, KOBZAR! H. Kytasty (words by T. Shevchenko). Recorded in Paris, France.
THE ASH TREES. I. Kryvenky / soloists: I. Krislaty, I. Kusznir, O. Moroz, L. Yakimiv. Recorded in Munich, Germany.
THE GIRL WHO SOLD HER HEART. Folk song – H. Kytasty. Recorded in Regensburg, Germany.
MOONLIT AND STARRY NIGHT. Folk song – I. Kytasty / soloist: T. Zakordonski. Recorded in Vienna, Austria.
THREE MERRY FOLK SONGS. Folk songs – D. Pika. Recorded in Regensburg, Germany.
THE PIPER. M. Leontovich / soloists: A. Shrubowich & O. Sklierenko. Recorded in Vienna, Austria.
THE EAGLE WALKS UPON THE SEA. Folk song / soloist: J. Zinchuk. Recorded in Paris, France.
OJ, HOP TY NY NY. Folk song - D. Pika / soloist: L. Yakimiv. Recorded in Vienna, Austria.
LULLABY. J. Brahms / soloist: T. Pryshlak. Recorded in Vienna, Austria.
SOLDIER'S CHORUS. C. Gounod - from the opera "Faust". Recorded in St. Avold, France.
AMAZING GRACE. Words and melody by J. Newton (arr. by O. Mahlay) / soloist: I. Kusznir. Recorded in Vienna, Austria.
SONG ABOUT YURIJ TIUTIUNNYK H. Kytasty (words by I. Bahrianyj) / soloists: Mych. Newmerzyckyj & T. Zakordonski. Recorded in Munich, Germany.

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Ukrainian Steppe

Detroit - The Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus announced the release of their 28th North American-produced album, coinciding with their tour of the eastern United States and Canada in the fall of 1997. Selections include pieces ranging from a composition arranged by one of the Chorus' directors of the 1930's to a world premiere of a piece composed in Ukraine exclusively for the Chorus. The recording presents an exciting program of folk songs, religious works, and the exotic sounds of the bandura. This album is available on cassette & compact disc.

The Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus is an all-male musical ensemble consisting of 20 instrumentalists and 40 vocalists. Originally founded in Kyiv, Ukraine in 1918, the ensemble relocated to Detroit, Michigan in 1949. Boasting a repertoire of more than 500 songs, this internationally celebrated ensemble has performed at Carnegie Hall, the Kyiv Opera House, Kennedy Center, and Massey Hall. They have also performed for such notable personalities as Presidents Nixon and Eisenhower, the U. S. Senate as well as numerous foreign dignitaries.

From the UBC Press Packet, 1997

PROGRAM

In Thy Kingdom -- U Tsarstvi Tvoim. This Kyivan chant is taken from the Divine Liturgy, cluminating with the proclamation: "Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven." The Kyivan Monastery of the Caves, the birthplace of this chant, dates back to the 11th century. Arrangement -- Oleh Mahlay.
Prayer of mercy -- Pid Tvoyu Milist'. This solemn prayer, traditionally sung at the conclusion of Vespers, beseeches the Virgin Mary to guide and protect. Music -- S. Liudkevych.
Amazing Grace This well-known hymn was written by a former slave trader turned preacher, and is set to the bandura by the director of the Chorus. Words/music -- J. Newton, arrangement -- O. Mahlay. Soloist: Jerome Cisaruk.
The Gray Cuckoo -- Zakuvala Syva Zozulen'ka. This folk song from the Kuban region describes a widower's request to be placed near the grave of his departed loved one, for the chance to be reborn at her side. The bandura players showcase the Khrakiv style of bandura playing. Oleksander Koshets.
Oy Hop Ty Ny Ny! -- Oy Hop Ty Ny Ny. This humorous song is comprised of various Ukrainian melodies as arranged by a former director of the Chorus from the 1930's. Danylo Pika. Soloist: Pavlo Pysarenko.
The Lake in the Field -- Oj U Poli Ozerechko. The young lover asks his girl to come out and speak to him for a moment, to sway her into leaving the husband she does not love. Ukrainian Folk Song. Soloist: Ihor Kusznir.
Echo of the Steppes -- Homin' Stepiv. This quintessential bandura composition illustrates the tumultuos events that have played themselves out on the fertile plains of Ukraine. The unique use of the instrument depicts the co-existence of man and nature on the vast kozak steppe, catching the essence of the stiff breezes sweeping though the tall grass. Music -- Hyrhory Kytasty.
The Chumaks -- Chumaky. A chumak was a teamster who drove his salt-laden oxen casrts along long, tortuous roads from the Black Sea to the cities. This world premiere piece, written specifically for the Chorus, describes the despair of a mother as her son leaves for the grueling road. Lyrics/music -- L. Dychko. Soloist: Omelan Helbig.
Duma About Ukraine -- Duma Pro Ukrainu. A duma is an epic ballad historically sung by blind bandura minstrels (kobzars). This duma depicts Ukraine as a bloodied, shackled woman, who cries out to her sons, the nation's heroes, to free her from the enemy's hold. This duma ends with a call to arms, proclaiming that freedom is near. Traditional Duma. Soloist: Marko Farion.
Grandfather Jerome -- Did Jarema In this humorous folk song Grandpa tracks the courtship and marriages of twenty sons to twenty daughters. Soloist: Petro Kytasty.
Song About Mazepa -- Pisnia Pro Mazepu. Ivan Mazepa (1639-1709), a Ukrainian leader (hetman), promulgated literature, churches education, and the free Ukrainian nation during the kozak era. In this song, Hetman Mazepa bids farewell to his kozak homeland after the defeat by Russia's Peter the Great at the Battle of Poltava in 1709. Although Mazepa wonders whether he will ever see his ruined homeland, he would never return to Ukraine. M. Stepanenko, arrangement -- Victor Mishalow. Soloist: Mykhail Newmerzyckyj.
Song of Yurij Tiutiunnyk -- Pisnya Pro Yuriya Tiutiunnyka. Tiutiunnyk was the celebrated leader of the Ukrainian Cavalry who won renown in battles against the Bolshevik Army (1918-1921). This song was the first in a series of collaborations of composer Hryhory Kytasty with author/lyricist Ivan Bahriany.
Brothers, Let us Fill Our Glasses! -- Nalyvaymo Brattya. "... so the enemies' swords and bullets will pass us by." A traditional kozak song. Arrangement -- O. Mahlay. Duet: Teodozij Pryshliak and Jerome Cisaruk.
Kolomyjka -- Kolomyjka. A popular Ukrainian festive song. Any Ukrainian knows at least one verse to this song and the refrain "oj daj dunaj...". The last verse directs the elderly to go on home as the younger ones will party all night! Arrangement: A. Hnatyshyn. Duet: T. Pryshliak and Andrij Soroka.
God Grant Thee Many Years! -- Mnohaya Lita. The proclamation is given asking God to grant kobzars (bandura minstrels), the Ukrainian nation, and all God-fearing people, "many years" (mnohaya lita!) Intonation: M. Farion.

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Golden Echoes of Kyiv

Golden Echoes of Kyiv - This recording of the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus features the Divine Liturgy in a traditional a capella setting. The liturgy evolves as a sonic metamorphosis from traditional chant, through polyphony, then finally discovering 300 years of Ukrainian sacred music. This recording features composers such as Dyletskiy, Berezovsky, Koshyts, Bortniansky, Stetsenko, Leontovych, Verbytsky, Kytasty, Lysenko, and Hnatyshyn.

Read a review of "Golden Echoes" from the Detroit Free Press, March 30, 2003 "Ukraine's Sacred Side" by David Lyman. www.freep.com/entertainment/music/disc30_20030330.htm

"...this is a noteworthy musical document filled with majestic ensemble work and dozens of fine solo performances..." - David Lyman, Detroit Free Press, March 30, 2003.

PROGRAM

Great Litany - O.Mahlay
First Antiphon (Psalm 102) - kyivan chant
Small Litany -O.Mahlay
Glory … Only Begotten Son - M.Dyletsky
Small Litany - kyivan chant
Third Antiphon (Matthew 5:3-11) - kyivan chant
Come, Let Us Worship - M.Berezovsky
Tropar Tone 2 halycian chant - M.Fedoriv
Thrice-Holy Hymn - O.Koshyts
Is Polla Eti Despota - D.Bortniansky
Prokeimonon Tone 2 - Kyiv Monastery of the Caves
Epistle Reading
Alleluia - kyivan chant
Litany of Fervent Supplication - kyivan chant
Cherubic Hymn - D.Bortniansky
Litany of Supplication - K.Stetsenko
Father, Son, & Holy Spirit - K.Stetsenko
The Symbol of Faith - M.Telezhinsky
Eucharistic Prayer - kyivan chant
We Praise You - kyivan chant
Proper to Mother of God - kyivan chant
The Lord's Prayer - N.Dubensky
One is Holy - anonymous
Praise the Lord - M.Verbytsky
We Have Seen The True Light - M.Leontovych
May Our Mouths Be Filled With Praise -M.Leontovych
Litany of Thanksgiving - H.Kytasty
Blessed be the Name of the Lord - A.Hnatyshyn
Glory to the Father - A.Hnatyshyn
Amen - A.Hnatyshyn
Prayer for Ukraine - M.Lysenko (O.Koshyts)

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A Bandura Christmas

PROGRAM

Today We Sing --Dnes' Poyushche. "Let us all sing to proclaim the glory of the Son of God." Arrangement -- Kyrylo Stetsenko. Soloist: Jarema Cisaruk.
A New Joy Has Arisen -- Nova Radist' Stala. The joy of Jesus Christ's birth and the bright star above His manger light up the entire world. Arrangement -- K. Stetsenko
Adeste Fideles -- "O Come All Ye Faithful". Arrangement -- Oleh Mahlay.
The Landlord's Carol -- A U Tsoho Hazyayna. Flickering candles illuminate the warm interior of the family home as they prepare for the holidays. Arrangement -- K. Stetsenko / O. Mahlay. Soloist: Victor Sheweli
Christmas Motives -- Rizdvyani Motyvy. A triptych of favorite Ukrainian seasonal songs featuring the bandurists. Arrangement -- Hryhory Kytasty: In Bethlehem -- Y Vefleyemi, Let Us Rejoice -- Vozveselimsya, Shchedryk -- Shchedryk.
On the River Jordan -- Oy Na Jordani. Mother Mary bathes the young babe in the River Jordan. Arrangement -- Oleksander Koshyts / O. Mahlay. Soloist: J. Cisaruk. Violin: O. Mahlay.
The News in Bethlehem -- Vo Vefleyemi Novyna. An intricate carol arranged by Ukrainian-Canadian composer Zenon Lawryshyn utilizes many effects of the bandura.
I Wonder as I Wander -- Ya Divlusya Ta Mandruyu. An Appalachian carol set to the bandura. Niles / O.Mahlay. Soloist: Ihor Kusznir.
The Saints -- Svyati Sidily. The saints labor to built a beautiful church with three steeples and three windows. Arrangement -- Volodymyr Bozhyk. Soloists: Omelan Helbig and Marko Farion.
Throughout the World -- Po Vsiomu Sviti. Joyful tidings of Christ's birth echo across the land. Arrangement -- K. Stetsenko. Duet: Pavlo Pysarenko and Oleh Moroz.
O, Holy Night -- O, Svyataya Nich. This perennial seasonal favorite is set to the flowing strings of the bandura. Arrangement -- A. Adams / M. Farion.
Shchedryk -- What has been known to the world as Carol of the Bells is actually an old Ukrainian seasonal winter song (shchedrivka).
Silent Night -- Tyha Nich. Stille Nacht, sung in English, German, and Ukrainian. Franz Gruber / H. Kytasty. Soloist: Teodozij Pryshlak.
Oh, Koliada! -- The Ukrainian word for carol is koliada. This playful carol asks the listening household to fill the carolers' pockets with food and money . . . or else. Music -- O. Mahlay. Soloists: Zenon Chaikovsky and Andrij Soroka.
God Eternal -- Boh Predvichnyj. This favorite Ukrainian carol can be heard throughout the world in all Ukrainian homes and churches on Christmas Day. Arrangement -- H. Kytasty.

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Black Sea Tour, Ukraine

Chorus' 27th North American-produced album, containing live recordings from their historic 1994 concert tour of southern Ukraine, including the region of Crimea. It was released as UBC CD 2 and UBC Cassette 8.

PROGRAM

Compac Disc Number One

The Cherubic Hymn -- Kheruvymska. An integral part of the Eastern Rite Liturgy, this Cherubicon was penned by Ukraine's most prolific 18th century composer Dmytro Bortniansky (1751-1825), a contemporary of W. A. Mozart. Trio: Roman Kassaraba, Boris Kekish, and Mykola Kostiuk.
I Do Not Regret the Years -- Ne Shkoduyu Za Litamy. '... but I do regret that I am not with you in my native land.' The last composition of the Chorus' longtime director Hryhory Kytasty. Lyrics -- Oleksander Pidsukha (1918-1990). Soloist: Ihor Kusznir.
Play, Bandura! -- Hray, Banduro! A battle song composed by Ihor Shamo (1925-1982), with the Zaporozhian Cossacks (Kozaks) calling on the bandura players to lead them into battle with songs of the beauty of the land they are defending. Lyrics -- D. Luczenko.
The Grove -- Hayu, Hayu. A folk song about love lost due to others' gossip and innuendo, arranged by the composer chiefly known for the piece Carol of the Bells Mykola Leontovych (1877-1921). Soloist: Teodozij Pryshliak.
Song of Yuriy Tiutiunnyk -- Pisnya Pro Yuriya Tiutiunnyka. Tiutiunnyk was the celebrated leader of the Ukrainian Cavalry who won renown in battles against the Bolshevik Army (1918-1921). This song was the first in a series of collaborations of composer H. Kytasty with author/lyricist Ivan Bahriany (1907-1963). Duet: R. Kassarab and T. Pryshliak.
Girl from Yalta -- Shu Yaltadan. A Crimean Tatar song arranged by the contemporary Tatar composer Iliasa Bashysh. Soloist: Pavlo Pysarenko.
The Singing Forest -- Oy Divchyno Shumit' Hay. A merry folk song about courtship and love, and how the young couple plans for the future. Arrangement -- H. Kytasty.
Too Much of a Girl! -- Oy Vazhu, Ya Vazhu! A humorous folk song about a boy who wavers on commitment to an aggressive girl and finally flees. Arrangement -- H. Kytasty.
Storm on the Black Sea (Duma) -- Burya Na Chornomu Mori. This is an orchestrated work of a 16th century duma. This piece was written by Hnat Khotkevych, but was banned by Stalin due to its religious connotation. As the Kozaks set sail on the Black Sea - a storm engulfs them. They realize that it is the wrath of God and the one who had sinned needs to confess and throw himself into the sea to save the others... Soloists: Jerome Cisaruk and T. Pryshliak.

Compac Disc Number Two

God Bless America. Irving Berlin, one of the 20th century's most prolific songwriters, and the composer/lyricist of this piece, was born in Ukraine in 1888. The Chorus added this piece to their repertoire prior to their Carnegie Hall appearance in 1983 in honor of his 95th birthday.
The Chumak Song -- Oy, Tam Chumak. A chumak was a teamster who led his salt-laden oxen carts along long, tortuous roads from the Black Sea and Crimea to the cities. This is a lament of one such chumak who comes to the end of his road, and has said farewell to his oxen... Arrangement -- H. Kytasty. Soloist: Mykhail Newmerzyckyj.
Play, Kobzar! -- Hray, Kobzariu! The kobzar is asked to play as the Kozaks sing a joyful song and dance 'so that the earth trembles'. Composed by H. Kytasty, the words are penned by Ukraine's 19th century bard Taras Shevchenko (1814-1861).
The Clouds are Rising -- Vstaye Khmara. Ukraine laments its people's fate of bondage and serfdom through the words of T. Shevchenko. Composed by Vasyl Yemetz, the Chorus' founder and first director in 1918.
The Gathering Eagles -- Haydamatska Pisnya. An historical song from the 18th century which tells of the liberation of Chyhyryn by Kozaks gathered with the speed of eagles to rise against the Polish gentry. Lyrics -- T. Shevchenko; music -- Kyrylo Stetsenko (1882-1922).
The Slave Market in Kaffa -- Nevilnychyj Rynok U Kafi. This piece features the bandura as it paints the scene of a Turkish slave market at Kaffa, the present-day city of Feodosia in the Crimea, where Ukrainian men, women, and children were sold during the 16th and 17th centuries. While Turkish motifs are ever-pervasive throughout, in the end, it is a Ukrainian folk melody that finally emerges from the sounds of the market. Music -- H. Khotkevych. Prologue: Arnold Birko.
Whose Courtyard is This? -- Oy Chyj Tse Dvir? A humorous song about a young man who states that he would marry the girl, but only if she was wealthy. Arrangement -- H. Kytasty.
The Carpathian Freedom Fighters -- Karpatsky Sichovnyky. The Chorus concluded its Black Sea Tour program with this piece. Composed by H. Kytasty with lyrics by Yar Slavutych, this piece recounts the fight for liberation of Carpatho-Ukraine in 1938, where Carpathian riflemen distinguished themselves in battle. In the final verse, the Black Sea (Chorne More) receives the fallen heroes as the bodies of the freedom fighters spill out of the Danube into the Ukrainian sea.
Medley of Ukrainian Folk Songs -- Vyazanka Tankovych Pisen'. This first encore presents three popular and humorous folk songs.
Freedom Fighter's Farewell -- Ihal Strilets. This piece describes the parting of a strilets (Ukrainian soldier during World War I) and his loved one as he goes off to war. Soloists: I. Kusznir and P. Pysarenko.
The Guilder-rose in the Meadow -- Oy U Luzi Chervona Kalyna. The kalyna (guilder-rose) is a symbol of Ukraine, and both the kalyna and the nation rise from the earth in this patriotic song. To many, this is an anthem second only to the official national anthem.
Ukrainian National Anthem -- Shche Ne Vmerla Ukraina. After decades of not being heard on Ukrainian soil, this became the official national anthem of Ukraine following its independence in 1991. Lyrics -- Pavlo Chubynsky (1839-1884); music -- Mykhajlo Verbytsky (1815-1870).

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Ukrainian Carols

Detroit - The Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus announces the release of a digitally restored and remastered CD of their 1960 Christmas album Ukrainian Carols.

The message of Christmas is timeless - a message of peace, hope, and joyful tidings celebrating the birth of our Savior. The selections on this CD are the most loved carols of the Ukrainian people set to the beautiful sounds of the bandura. We hope you enjoy our music as you celebrate this Christmas and many more to come...

Three generations of members have passed through ranks of the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus since its displacement from Ukraine in 1942. In addition to its mission of carrying the tradition of the bandura into the 21st century, the Chorus is also charged with preserving its past for future generations. This Compact Disc represents the first of many restorations of historical recordings by the Chorus. It is a re-issue of material recorded in 1960 on analog equipment. Although great care has been taken to preserve and restore the high audio quality of the music, some flaws may be heard due to the limitations of the original equipment used to make the recording.

The Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus, Laureate of the Taras Shevchenko Ukrainian State Prize, is an all-male musical ensemble consisting of 20 instrumentalists and 40 vocalists. Originally founded in Kyiv, Ukraine in 1918, the ensemble relocated to Detroit, Michigan in 1949. Boasting a repertoire of more than 500 songs, this internationally celebrated ensemble has performed at such well known theatres as Carnegie Hall, the Kyiv Opera House, Kennedy Center, the Bolshoi Theatre, and Massey Hall. They have also performed for such notable personalities as Presidents Nixon and Eisenhower, the U. S. Senate as well as numerous foreign dignitaries.

From the UBC Press Packet, 1998

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Again With You, My Ukraine

A live recording of the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus in concert in Kyiv, Ukraine, 8 June 1991. This was the Chorus' first concert tour of Ukraine since World War II.

PROGRAM

Testament -- Zapovit'. Taras Shevchenko's testament to his Ukrainian brethren. Music by Hnat Khotkevych.
Praise the Lord, O My Soul -- Blahoslovy, Dushe Moya, Hospoda. Psalm 104, music by Kyrylo Stetsenko (1882-1922). Soloist: Petro Pacholuk.
The Carpathian Freedom Fighters -- Karpatsky Sichovnyky. Composed by Hryhory Kytasty with lyrics by Yar Slavutych, this piece recounts the fight for liberation of Carpatho-Ukraine in 1938, where Carpathian riflemen distinguished themselves in battle. In the final verse, the Black Sea (Chorne More) receives the fallen heroes as the bodies of the freedom fighters spill out of the Danube into the Ukrainian sea.
Country Tavern -- Korchomka. Arranged by H. Khotkevych. Soloist: Pavlo Pysarenko.
Swans -- Lebedi Lyrics by M. Sytynka, music by H. Kytasty. Soloist: Yurij Oryshkevych.
Bayda -- 16th century ballad about the capture of Prince Dmytro "Bajda" Vyshnevetsly by the Turkish Sultan. This epic poem is a dialogue between a defiant Bajda and the Sultan. Bajda manages to trick the and kill the Sultan before dying under torture. Arranged by H. Khotkevych. Soloists: Andrij Soroka and Bohdan Chaplynsky.
Play, Kobzar! -- Hray Kobzariu! The kobzar is asked to play as the Kozaks sing a joyful song and dance 'so that the earth trembles'. Composed by H. Kytasty, the words are penned by Ukraine's 19th century bard Taras Shevchenko (1814-1861).
Freedom Fighter's Farewell -- Ikhav Strilets'. This piece describes the parting of a strilets (Ukrainian soldier during World War I) and his loved one as he goes off to war. Soloists: Ihor Kusznir and P. Pysarenko.
The Guilder-rose in the Meadow -- Oy U Poli Chervona Kalyna. The kalyna (guilder-rose) is a symbol of Ukraine, and both the kalyna and the nation rise from the earth in this patriotic song. To many, this is an anthem second only to the official national anthem.
The Slave Market in Kaffa -- Nevilnychyj Rynok U Kafi. This piece features the bandura as it paints the scene of a Turkish slave market at Kaffa, the present-day city of Feodosia in the Crimea, where Ukrainian men, women, and children were sold during the 16th and 17th centuries. While Turkish motifs are ever-pervasive throughout, in the end, it is a Ukrainian folk melody that finally emerges from the sounds of the market. Music -- H. Khotkevych. Prologue: Victor Mishalow.
Storm on the Black Sea (Duma) -- Burya Na Chornomu Mori. This is an orchestrated work of a 16th century duma. This piece was written by H. Khotkevych, but was banned by Stalin due to its religious connotation. As the Kozaks set sail on the Black Sea - a storm engulfs them. They realize that it is the wrath of God and the one who had sinned needs to confess and throw himself into the sea to save the others... Soloists: Jerome Cisaruk and Teodozij Pryshliak.
Arise Ye People -- Vstavay Narode. Lyrics by Ivan Bahrianyj (1907-1963), music by H. Kytasty. Soloist: J. Cisaruk.

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Ukrainian Steppe

From the UBC Press Packet, 1997

PROGRAM

Side One

In Thy Kingdom -- U Tsarstvi Tvoim. This Kyivan chant is taken from the Divine Liturgy, culminating with the proclamation: "Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven." The Kyivan Monastery of the Caves, the birthplace of this chant, dates back to the 11th century. Arrangement -- Oleh Mahlay.
Prayer of mercy -- Pid Tvoyi Mylist. This solemn prayer, traditionally sung at the conclusion of Vespers, beseeches the Virgin Mary to guide and protect. Music -- Stanislav Liudkevych (1879-1979).
Amazing Grace This well-known hymn was written by a former slave trader turned preacher, and is set to the bandura by the director of the Chorus. Words/music -- J. Newton, arrangement -- O. Mahlay. Soloist: Jerome Cisaruk.
The Gray Cuckoo -- Zakuvala Syva Zozulya. This folk song from the Kuban region describes a widower's request to be placed near the grave of his departed loved one, for the chance to be reborn at her side. The bandura players showcase the Kharkiv style of bandura playing. Oleksander Koshyts (1875-1944).
Oy Hop Ty Ny Ny! This humorous song is comprised of various Ukrainian melodies as arranged by a former director of the Chorus from the 1930's. Danylo Pika. Soloist: Pavlo Pysarenko.
The Lake in the Field -- Oy U Poli Ozerechko. The young lover asks his girl to come out and speak to him for a moment, to sway her into leaving the husband she does not love. Ukrainian Folk Song. Soloist: Ihor Kusznir.
Echo of the Steppes -- Homin' Stepiv. This quintessential bandura composition illustrates the tumultuous events that have played themselves out on the fertile plains of Ukraine. The unique use of the instrument depicts the co-existence of man and nature on the vast kozak steppe, catching the essence of the stiff breezes sweeping though the tall grass. Music -- Hyrhory Kytasty.
The Chumaks -- Chumaky. A chumak was a teamster who drove his salt-laden oxen carts along long, tortuous roads from the Black Sea to the cities. This world premiere piece, written specifically for the Chorus, describes the despair of a mother as her son leaves for the grueling road. Lyrics/music -- Lesia Dychko (1939-). Soloist: Omelan Helbig.

Side Two

Duma About Ukraine -- Duma Pro Ukrainu. A duma is an epic ballad historically sung by blind bandura minstrels (kobzars). This duma depicts Ukraine as a bloodied, shackled woman, who cries out to her sons, the nation's heroes, to free her from the enemy's hold. This duma ends with a call to arms, proclaiming that freedom is near. Traditional Duma. Soloist: Marko Farion.
Grandfather Jerome -- Did Yarema. In this humorous folk song Grandpa tracks the courtship and marriages of twenty sons to twenty daughters. Soloist: Petro Kytasty.
Song About Mazepa -- Pisnya Pro Mazepu. Ivan Mazepa (1639-1709), a Ukrainian leader (hetman), promulgated literature, churches education, and the free Ukrainian nation during the kozak era. In this song, Hetman Mazepa bids farewell to his kozak homeland after the defeat by Russia's Peter the Great at the Battle of Poltava in 1709. Although Mazepa wonders whether he will ever see his ruined homeland, he would never return to Ukraine. Mykhajlo Stepanenko (1942-), arrangement -- Victor Mishalow. Soloist: Mykhail Newmerzyckyj.
Song of Yuriy Tiutiunnyk -- Pisnya Pro Yurija Tiutiunyka. Tiutiunnyk was the celebrated leader of the Ukrainian Cavalry who won renown in battles against the Bolshevik Army (1918-1921). This song was the first in a series of collaborations of composer H. Kytasty with author/lyricist Ivan Bahriany (1907-1963). Duet: Roman Kassaraba and T. Pryshliak.
Brothers, Let us Fill Our Glasses! -- Nalyvajmo Brattya. "... so the enemies' swords and bullets will pass us by." A traditional kozak song. Arrangement -- O. Mahlay. Duet: T. Pryshliak and J. Cisaruk.
Kolomyjka A popular Ukrainian festive song. Any Ukrainian knows at least one verse to this song and the refrain "oj daj dunaj...". The last verse directs the elderly to go on home as the younger ones will party all night! Arrangement: Andrij Hnatyshyn (1906-1995). Duet: T. Pryshliak and Andrij Soroka.
God Grant Thee Many Years! -- Mnohaya Lita. The proclamation is given asking God to grant kobzars (bandura minstrels), the Ukrainian nation, and all God-fearing people, "many years" (mnohaya lita!) Intonation: M. Farion.

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Millennium Concert 988-1988

Excerpts