An ocean away, the war between Russia and Ukraine continues. At home in Spearfish, in an uncertain moment for many Ukrainian people, is an opportunity to connect with the culture.
Gerdan – Kaleidoscope of the Music World – a concert celebrating the folk music of Ukraine, will be live at the Matthews Opera House in Spearfish Tuesday, April 18.
Rodney Garnett, a longtime associate of the band, said it’s the perfect time to meaningfully engage with Ukrainian art.
“The beauty of Gerdan is that they play music from all over Ukraine," Garnett said. "They’ve done lots of work in the Carpathian Mountains in western Ukraine. They’re in love with all of Ukraine, and really have dug deeply into the rich music of all over the country. It’s just lively music, as well as really heart wrenching and sometimes sad, and it’s about lots of strong feelings I think.”
Garnett said to expect a colorful, intimate concert.
“People are able to personally connect with the musicians very quickly," Garnett said. "The stage is close to the audience, and these are four very outgoing, friendly people. So, I hope audiences will go away feeling like they’ve personally connected with Ukraine, and with the people of Ukraine.”
Solomia Gorokhivska, violinist and vocalist in the band, said they’ll be bringing Ukraine to Spearfish.
“It will be very versatile music, from dance tunes to beautiful songs, and we’ll also talk about what’s going on there and learn about our culture a bit, we’ll have traditional costumes," Gorokhivska said. "If the audience will be energetic and enthusiastic, I will even teach a song.”
In addition, band members will lead a discussion for students at Black Hills State and give a presentation to the Sturgis Public Library April 20.