NEW RELEASE: Kazka folk ensemble's second recording (01/30/00)

NEW RELEASE: Kazka folk ensemble's second recording

WHITEHALL, Pa. - The Kazka Ukrainian Folk Ensemble has released its second recording, "Timeless Traditions."

This new release, available on CD and cassette, is a collection of regional folk songs and contemporary Ukrainian music. Lively Lemko and Transcarpathian folk tunes sung in regional dialect are featured alongside Ukrainian favorites such as "Hey Zabava" and "My Gypsy Girl."

Other selections include a medley of patriotic arrangements evoking the spirit of the Ukrainian Sich Riflemen of World War I, as well as a musical tribute to the poetic styling of Volodymyr Ivasiuk.

Kazka originates in the anthracite coal region of northeastern Pennsylvania. The vocal quartet - all second- and third-generation Ukrainian Americans - is composed of Paula Duda (soprano), Sandra Duda (alto), Joseph Zucofski (tenor) and Michael Duda (baritone).

Most of the ensemble's repertoire on this recording is arranged by Mr. Zucofski and Mr. Duda, who also accompany the group on guitar and accordion. Special guest artist Ron Krolick joins the group on bass guitar and concertina.

The vocalists study individually and collectively with vocal instructor Cora Gamolin, artist-in-residence at the Schuylkill County Art and Ethnic Center in Pottsville, Pa.

Since 1987 Kazka has been making a name for itself throughout the eastern United States and beyond. In 1992 the ensemble traveled and performed in newly independent Ukraine as part of a tour benefiting the Children of Chornobyl Fund. More recently Kazka has appeared on the nationally televised program "The Wedding Story," produced for The Learning Channel.

The group has also graced stages at Bethlehem Musikfest, Ellis Island National Park, the Ukrainian National Association resort Soyuzivka and the Pennsylvania State University Slavic Festival.

For more information on "Timeless Traditions" or Kazka, contact Ms. Duda at 5023 Foxdale Drive, Whitehall, PA 18052, or Mr. Zucofski at jwz@pottsville.infi.net.

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