The Ukrainian culture is full of rich customs and art, and it is the mission of the Ukrainian Museum-Archives to not only support, but to reinforce and cultivate these traditions within our community.  In alignment with this mission, the UMA recently established “MUZYKA @ the UMA” – a multi-faceted music series designed to enhance the UMA with a stream of programming in the form of musical events.  At the helm of this exciting new programming is renowned musician Oleh Mahlay, former Artistic Director and Conductor of the Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus. 

 

Maestro Mahlay, along with the input and support of the UMA board, has developed a comprehensive curriculum for the program.  The MUZYKA @ the UMA series will provide the museum with continuous events throughout the year including listening lectures on various Ukrainian musical topics, coordinated projects with established exhibits at the UMA, and focused interactive events about Ukrainian Cleveland musicians and their work.      As the Musical Curator, Mahlay will also be thoroughly organizing, identifying and developing the vast music collection at the Ukrainian Museum-Archives. 

 

A graduate of Case Western Reserve University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music History and Literature, Mahlay has a long involvement in the Ukrainian music scene.  A member of various orchestras, choirs and instrumental ensembles in the Cleveland area, Mahlay became the choir director of St. Vladimir Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral Choir.  In 1996, at the age of 26, Mahlay became the artistic director and conductor of the world-renowned Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus based in Detroit, MI. After twelve years as the Chorus’ conductor, Mahlay stepped down from the position in 2008, and used the opportunity to devote himself to this new and exciting project at the UMA. 

 

“I am eager to create something unique and of high quality that features the beauty and depth of our Ukrainian music,” said Mr. Mahlay.  “I believe the MUZYKA@ the UMA series will become a long-term asset to the institution and to our community.”

 

The UMA extends a warm welcome to Mr. Mahlay and is looking forward to utilizing his expertise and experience to further the museum’s mission by expanding their musical presence and knowledge within the Ukrainian community.