On the evening of November 2, St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Edmonton was filled with the sounds of Ukrainian music as the beloved bandura group Feyeria celebrated its first anniversary. This special concert marked a year of the group’s dedication to preserving and sharing Ukrainian culture through music, making it a memorable event for the community. The concert was attended by a diverse audience, all eager to experience the beauty of Ukrainian folk songs, choral harmonies, and instrumental masterpieces.
Adding to the significance of the evening, Bishop David Motiuk and Danyleiko Oleksandr, the Consul General of Ukraine in Edmonton, joined as honored guests. The audience was also graced by the presence of Dr. Andrii Horniatkevych, the talented vocal ensemble ‘Dzerelo,’ and the mandolin group ‘St. Nick’s Pics,’ all of whom contributed to the evening’s vibrant celebration of Ukrainian culture.
Feyeria is Edmonton’s only bandura ensemble, committed to bringing the traditional sounds of the bandura—a unique, centuries-old Ukrainian string instrument—to the forefront of the city’s cultural scene. The bandura, often referred to as the soul of Ukrainian music, produces a rich, resonant sound that blends beautifully with choir singing. Over the past year, Feyeria has become a treasured part of Edmonton’s Ukrainian community, bringing to life a repertoire that spans traditional folk tunes, Christmas carols, and complex instrumental arrangements.
Every note played that night was a tribute to Ukrainian heritage, with each song telling a story of hope, resilience, and cultural pride. Feyeria’s repertoire was carefully selected to highlight the diversity of Ukrainian musical traditions. From lively folk melodies that sparked joy to soulful carols that evoked a sense of peace and contemplation, the concert offered something for everyone. The music transported the audience on a journey through Ukraine’s landscapes, from its bustling cities to its tranquil countryside, and reminded everyone of the richness of Ukrainian culture.
One of the highlights of the evening was the sheer variety of musical arrangements. Feyeria skillfully combined bandura music with vocal harmonies and other traditional instruments, adding layers of depth and vibrancy to their performance. The audience was captivated by the interplay of sounds, which offered a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural essence of Ukraine. For many in attendance, especially those with Ukrainian roots, the concert was a deeply moving experience that stirred a sense of nostalgia and connection to their heritage.
The concert was open to the public with free admission, inviting everyone to experience the beauty of Ukrainian music. Although the concert was free, attendees were encouraged to contribute donations to support Feyeria’s mission. After the concert, the evening continued with a silent auction, where guests had the chance to bid on various items. All proceeds from the auction will go toward purchasing new banduras, allowing Feyeria to expand their group and continue growing this beautiful art form. The silent auction was a success, with generous contributions that will help Feyeria in its quest to preserve and celebrate Ukrainian music in Edmonton.
The presence of Bishop David Motiuk and Consul General Danyleiko Oleksandr underscored the importance of the event. Their support highlighted the role of cultural events like this in uniting the community, particularly at a time when many are looking to reconnect with their roots. Bishop David expressed his admiration for the group’s dedication, noting how their music serves as a bridge between generations and as a reminder of Ukraine’s rich cultural legacy.
For St. Nicholas Catholic Church, hosting this concert was not only a celebration of music but also an opportunity to foster a sense of community and cultural pride. The church has long been a gathering place for Edmonton’s Ukrainian community, and events like Feyeria’s concert reflect the church’s commitment to preserving and nurturing Ukrainian traditions. By bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds, the church continues to be a pillar of support for cultural expression and heritage.
The concert was not just an evening of entertainment; it was a powerful reminder of the enduring strength and beauty of Ukrainian culture. As Edmonton’s only bandura ensemble, Feyeria stands at the forefront of a movement to keep Ukrainian music alive for future generations. Their passion and dedication are evident in every performance, and their music serves as a testament to the resilience of Ukrainian heritage.
We invite everyone to stay connected with St. Nicholas Catholic Church for future events and performances that celebrate the richness of Ukrainian culture. Feyeria’s concert may have ended, but their music continues to resonate, inspiring hope, unity, and pride in the Ukrainian community and beyond.
For those who could not attend, keep an eye out for more opportunities to experience the magic of Feyeria’s performances and the timeless beauty of the bandura. Together, let’s support and celebrate Edmonton’s growing Bandura community and the vibrant traditions they bring to life.
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