What does music mean to you, and what does it mean to sing Ukrainian songs thousands of kilometers away from your homeland?
Music is our life — it is something we cannot imagine ourselves without. It is a part of us, a force that always uplifts us spiritually. No matter how long we might step away from it, creativity and song always return and stay with us throughout life. Singing Ukrainian songs thousands of kilometers away from our homeland is a way to stay connected to our roots, language, and culture, even when we are far from home. For us, it is an opportunity to share Ukrainian culture with the world, support one another, and remind ourselves who we are regardless of distance. It is also a great honor.
Which Ukrainian songs resonate the most with American audiences?
We have often performed — and continue to perform — for American audiences, as well as participate in various international festivals where we present Ukrainian songs and culture. Ukrainian ethnic music, especially traditional folk songs, resonates the most. They are very melodic and rich in harmonies, which truly captivates listeners. And when you wear traditional embroidered clothing, it becomes even more unique.
The fusion of Ukrainian ethnic elements with modern music is one of the strongest trends today — it is equally well received both in Ukraine and in the United States and truly connects with audiences.
Do you feel a difference in how Ukrainian music is perceived in Ukraine versus within the diaspora?
Of course, there is a difference. In Ukraine, Ukrainian music is part of contemporary culture — listeners are more demanding and pay attention to style, trends, and innovation. Especially now, Ukrainian music is actively developing and moving forward, particularly in recent years as it experiences a new rise.
Abroad, within the diaspora — especially among older generations of Ukrainian Americans — Ukrainian music is not just music, but a deep emotional connection to Ukraine and their roots. Each song sounds deeper, sometimes even more painful. At the same time, in the current conditions of war, a new wave of young Ukrainians who have recently moved abroad активно develop cultural life: they organize modern Ukrainian festivals, art exhibitions, invite Ukrainian artists, and hold concerts, thereby supporting Ukraine.
How often do you participate in charity concerts? Who do you primarily support?
Almost all concerts and festivals taking place now are charitable, in support of Ukraine. Since the beginning of the full-scale war, we have been actively participating in charity concerts and continue to raise funds to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as for the treatment and rehabilitation of Ukrainian soldiers. We also collaborate with charitable foundations. Charity concerts are a cultural front and our duty — to support Ukraine in this difficult time, wherever we are, whether in Ukraine or abroad.
You have received many awards. Which one is the most memorable for you and why?
Three years ago, on Ukraine’s Independence Day, we were awarded the World Order “Golden Star” for cultural diplomacy. This is an international honorary award presented to figures in culture, art, sports, and diplomacy who promote Ukraine through their work. Every award is important and memorable for us, as each achievement comes through hard work on ourselves and our music. We value every recognition and award — each one is special, and we are sincerely grateful for them.
What challenges do you face as Ukrainian artists in America?
There are quite a few challenges, as we are currently far from Ukraine. We do not have as wide an audience or as many concert opportunities as we would have at home. However, despite this, we continue to work actively: we write new songs, film videos, perform extensively, tour across America, and participate in festivals and charity events supporting Ukraine.
We believe that Ukrainian music today has a special voice in the world. And even if our path is not easy, it is extremely important.
Are there other fields, besides music, in which you would like to realize yourselves?
We are not only singers but also professional artists, as we have an academic background in visual arts. Our father is an artist, and from an early age our parents nurtured in us a love for art and shaped us as future artists. We graduated from an art school and also from Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University with a degree in Fine Arts and Graphics. However, music prevailed, so painting is currently more of a hobby for us. Still, we would like to further develop and realize ourselves in this field in the future. We are also considering trying ourselves in teaching, in order to pass on our experience to others.
Do you plan to create new original Ukrainian songs or albums?
Yes, of course. We are working on new material and collaborating with many well-known Ukrainian composers who write songs for us. Recently, we recorded a new composition titled “When I Embrace You” and are already planning its release. We have also completed work on a new album, which includes songs created and recorded over recent years. This is a very special project for us, bringing together different emotions, stages, and experiences that we have lived through with music.
How do you see the mission of Ukrainian song in the world today, in the context of war and global changes?
The mission of Ukrainian song today is a cultural weapon, a voice of the people, and a way to preserve our identity in the world. Music tells the world about the war through emotions and serves as a powerful tool of unity. Songs unite Ukrainians around the world — from those who remain at home to those in the diaspora. Ukrainian song is also cultural diplomacy. Thanks to artists and concerts, Ukrainian music is heard on all continents, because wherever Ukrainians are, Ukrainian song lives.
Creativity requires inspiration and strength. Where do you find these resources?
Like all creative people, we are very emotional and sensitive, so we draw our inspira- tion from life itself. Every day we experience different emotions, feelings, and events — joyful or sad — and this inspires what we express in our songs. Successes and failures also motivate us not to give up and to keep moving forward. Concerts are another powerful source of energy — when people thank us for our songs and creativity, it gives us inspiration, strong energy, and love, which become our resource to keep creating.
What dreams or projects would you like to realize in the near future?
We dream of returning to Ukraine and continuing our creative work there. Our plans include recording several new songs and holding solo concerts.
