35 years for the folklore-ethnographic ensemble “Krynytsia”, officially recognized by UNESCO as the bearer of the intangible cultural heritage element “Cossack Songs of Dnipropetrovsk Region” 🇺🇦.
Today, in the city of Pidhirne, this ensemble, which carefully preserves and shares with the world the enduring flame of Cossack song, was congratulated on its anniversary.
We also celebrated the group, which, like a true spring (krynytsia), keeps and nourishes the source of our deep-rooted memory, and which we have known for over 10 years ☝️.
The celebration brought together both the long-time members and the youngest followers of the ensemble.
Particularly touching were the veteran members:
Maria Maksymivna Kornuta, the 90-year-old soloist of the ensemble, and
Raisa Vasylivna Polyviana, 86 years old, the ensemble’s elder, both singing with the group since 1989, from its very beginning!
The youngest member, Liubov Polishchuk, has just entered her 50s.
“Krynytsia” also has a younger companion ensemble, “Krynychenka”, which originally had 17 children. Four years later, 7 of them have joined “Krynytsia”. The youngest soloist of “Krynychenka,” Marina Bahatko, is now 13 years old.
It is truly a wonder that ensembles like this exist today. “Krynytsia” does more than perform songs — the performers channel them through their hearts, bringing every word and melody to life, rooted deeply in our history. Their voices are the voices of our ancestors, resonating in songs that tell of Cossack spirit, courage, love for the homeland, and bravery. Each song revives an entire layer of Ukrainian history, making listeners feel connected to a great nation.
Thanks to an ensemble like “Krynytsia,” our culture lives on, inspires, and is passed down as a precious legacy from generation to generation.
Thank you, “Krynytsia,” for your dedication, your music, and your strength!
