Mass Singing Event in Uzhhorod
More than a thousand participants in Uzhhorod came together to perform the song 'Verkhovyno, My Mother' simultaneously, marking the centennial of Mikhail Mashkin’s birth—the composer behind this beloved piece. Around 30 choral and vocal groups from across the Zakarpattia region joined the event, making it a significant cultural milestone for the local community and admirers of Mashkin’s work.
The Legacy of 'Verkhovyno, My Mother'
Written by Mikhail Mashkin in the mid-1950s, 'Verkhovyno, My Mother' was originally composed for the choir 'Borzhava,' which Mashkin founded in the village of Dovhe. The song later became a staple of the Zakarpattia National Choir’s repertoire, gaining widespread recognition. For more than twenty years, the song has been performed by Petro Matiy, a People's Artist of Ukraine and soloist of the Zakarpattia National Choir, who also delivered the solo during the recent mass performance.
Following the group singing, attendees gathered in the choir hall for a special screening of archival footage and the 1960 documentary about the Zakarpattia National Choir titled 'Verkhovyno, My Mother,' produced by the Oleksandr Dovzhenko Film Studio. Lydia Symkanych, a Ukrainian language and literature teacher, choir member of 'Borzhava,' and tour guide, shared insights into Mashkin’s life and artistic journey. She also presented a historic record related to Mashkin’s creative legacy to the Zakarpattia National Choir.
This mass singing event launched a series of commemorations planned for Mashkin’s 100th anniversary in November 2026. Upcoming celebrations will include:
- concerts
- memory evenings
- book and documentary exhibitions
- thematic lectures
- and other cultural activities
The occasion highlighted the enduring importance of Mashkin’s contributions to Ukrainian music and cultural heritage. Beyond honoring the composer’s memory, the event aims to inspire new generations to explore and promote his work. Such initiatives play a vital role in preserving cultural traditions and strengthening community support for local artists.