The Canada-Ukraine connection will be strong at Taghum Hall on Wednesday, July 24, when Ukraine-born musician Nastasia Y arrives for a special workshop and concert as part of the Taghum Hall Presents performance series.
The concert, performed with trumpet player Andrew McAnsh, starts at 7:30 p.m. outdoors at the Taghum Hall gazebo. The workshop, which runs from 6 to 7 p.m., offers an exploration into the healing power of Ukrainian folk songs and is for everyone — no singing experience necessary. The workshop and concert are each just $15 (the workshop is free to Ukrainian refugees).
Nastasia, a multi-lingual singer and keyboardist, was raised on her late father’s resistance songs performed as part of the Ukrainian resistance movement in the late 1980s. After relocating to Canada, her musical roots eventually led her to earn a jazz piano degree and a diploma in classical music.
Now, she brings her love of jazz, funk, electro, and R&B musical genres to the stage, blending them with Slavic folk music as she advocates for her country. In her earlier persona of Stacey Y and now as Nastasia Y, she has collaborated with notable artists of all genres, and her voice has been featured on the TV show Orphan Black.
“We’re so happy to be hosting this,” says Taghum Hall events co-ordinator Heather Haake. “The Russian invasion of Ukraine affected the whole world. Here in the Kootenays we have a number of refugee families, and so many who support the cause. It will be an evening full of heart.”
Ukrainian food and souvenirs will be for sale at the event, and proceeds will benefit the Maple Hope Foundation, which helps Ukrainians living in conditions of war and hardship, and those who are displaced. Tickets are available at the door or at www.taghumhall.ca. While some bench seating is available, folks are asked to bring a blanket or lawn chair.
