Ukrainian Male Chorus celebrates three decades with A Festive Mosaic

Fresh from a successful participation in the 2014 World Choral Games at Riga, Latvia where they scored silver in the three categories, the Ukrainian Male Chorus is focused on offering a unique musical experience to kick off the Christmas season.

These Ukrainian-Canadian musical ambassadors, under the direction of Orest Soltykevych, will present A Festive Mosaic on Dec. 6 at McDougall Church.

The 90-minute concert features 30-odd voices singing a rich program of treasured Ukrainian sacred and traditional carols, many not performed in recent memory.

Partnering with the male choir are two other vibrant choirs – the lighter voices of the Edmonton Youth Choir and the lush stylings of the Ritchie Trombone Choir.

In addition, soprano Nola Shantz, who recently returned from studies in Italy, will join the choir for several carols.

Shantz will front Bohorodytes Divo (Ave Maria), a variant of the original specifically arranged for mixed chorus.

“The arrangement is very angelic, very heavenly. We sing it softly, quietly and it gives you the chills. It’s a goose bump moment,” said tenor John-Michael Palahniuk who along with cohort Nestor Petriw reside in Sturgeon County.

Two other highlights are the bell-flavoured Z Nany Boh (Our God), a 1970s arrangement that celebrates the birth of Jesus, and U Vyflejemi (Oh Bethlehem), an up-tempo, catchy song that is easily Ukraine’s most recognizable carol.

The choir is especially excited to be performing with the Edmonton Youth Choir, an ensemble they first met at the world games.

“They are about 14 to 20 and their voices are unbelievable. They are a fantastic choir and top-notch in the Edmonton area.”

And the 16-man Trombone Choir, under the baton of Tim Keufler, making its debut at this concert will definitely add a fresh vibe.

“Music is a universal language. In this church setting, it will brighten the true meaning of Christmas.

For more information visit the choir’s website at ukrainianmalechorus.ca.