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Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus

The Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus (UBC) is an internationally recognized men's choir that has played a significant role in the cultural preservation and promotion of Ukrainian music and the bandura instrument. Their origins date back to Kyiv in 1918, where the ensemble began as a group of bandura-playing kobzars. Over the years, particularly through periods of hardship, including World War II and the diaspora of many Ukrainians, the UBC re-established itself in Detroit, Michigan, and has since been a cultural ambassador for Ukraine across the globe.

The chorus's repertoire is extensive, showcasing the unique sounds of the bandura—a traditional Ukrainian stringed instrument often likened to a lute or harp—and their vocal harmonies. Recent releases such as "Ukrainian Songs, Vol. IV" and "Brothers! We Shall Live! Music to the Words of Taras Shevchenko" celebrate Ukraine's folk heritage and honor its national poet, Taras Shevchenko. Other works like "A Bandura Christmas" and "Golden Echoes of Kyiv: Divine Liturgy" offer listeners a taste of Ukrainian seasonal and sacred music. The UBC also documents its international presence through recordings made during its extensive tours, as heard in "European Tour: Historic Live Recordings" and "Black Sea Tour: Historic Live Recordings," which capture the ensemble's dynamic live performances. Through their music, the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus continues to deliver the heart and soul of Ukraine to audiences around the world, playing a vital role in the preservation and celebration of Ukrainian culture through the universal language of music.

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