Ukrainian music gets back to its roots

MILFORD — The Korinya Ukrainian Folk Band and dancers from the KAZKA Ukrainian Folk Ensemble will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Milford Theatre.

Korinya, which means "roots" in English, is based in upstate New York. Its young musicians present the music in a fresh, grassroots way.

"Ukrainian music is a very unifying aspect of the culture," said Sana Shepko, violinist and manager. "Fifth-generation Ukrainians know the same songs as people who live in the Ukraine. The narrative content often includes some sort of moral, and symbolism is ubiquitous throughout the lyrics. The versatility and variety of this music is also part of its appeal. While some songs speak of heartbreak, many are humorous and cheerful."

In 2012 Korinya earned the title of National Artists of Ukraine by winning first place at the Boyko Festival. Its members perform songs from all regions of the Ukraine. They play some easily recognized instruments, like the violin, but they also use exotic ones, such as a bandura, telenka, and duda.

The Kazka Ukrainian Folk Ensemble was founded in 1987 in order to preserve, promote, and enhance Ukrainian culture, music, and dance in Northeastern Pennsylvania. KAZKA is particularly dedicated to the preservation of the music and dance of the first immigrants to the anthracite regions in the late 19th century and early 20th centuries.

For more on Korinya, including a sample of their music, visit www.korinya.yolasite.com.