The Levada and Orion Choirs, and the Vanguard Concert Band have demonstrated extensive community involvement. They regularly entertain our esteemed seniors at the Ukrainian Canadian Care Centre and at the Ivan Franko Old Age Homes in Etobicoke and Mississauga. The Ensembles are frequently invited to participate in numerous community events: State dinner for President Victor Yuschenko of Ukraine at the Fairmont Royal York, Ecumenical Mass at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ukrainian Day at Ontario Place, Youth Festivals in Ellenville and Glen Spey, New York, Staff Christmas party at the Ukrainian Credit Union, and annual Toronto Eparchy Celebrations at the Canadian National Exhibition.

The Vanguard Concert/Marching Band participated in the Official Opening Ceremonies of the fourth floor of the Ukrainian Canadian Care Centre in Etobicoke, which was attended by many dignitaries. The Vanguard Concert/Marching Band also participates in various festivals and parades: The Toronto Ukrainian Festival, The Orillia Santa Clause Parade, and The Bread and Honey Parade, in Streetsville, Ontario.

The Levada Women’s Choir supports the choral development of youth in the community. Every year the choristers outreach to schools, inviting girls from age twelve to participate in the annual musical presentation of Easter, Spring and Ritual Songs. This event provides a unique educational and cultural opportunity for the younger generation to experience its heritage within the multicultural mosaic of their country, Canada. There is no admission charge to this performance. The Levada Women’s Choir raises its profile in the community as it trains and educates new choristers and develops new audiences. The members of the Levada Choir have performed in myriad venues: Mississauga Living Arts Centre accompanied by the Mississauga Symphony, Metro Hall as part of ”Easter Around the World” organized by the Toronto Folk Arts Council, St. Elias U.C.C. in Brampton, ON and in various U.S. cities.

The Levada Women’s Choir, Orion Men’s Choir and Vanguard Concert/Marching Band have a clear vision: to expand audiences, especially the younger generation, and to enhance their musical experience through choral and instrumental performances. Their policy at concerts attests to the above; youth fifteen years of age and under are granted free admission to all musical presentations. The ultimate goal is promoting the arts for future generations and to use one’s talents in service for others.

Since their inception, the Ukrainian Youth Ensembles have reached out to new immigrants by welcoming them into their diverse musical family. This integration provides them with many opportunities to embrace our Canadian culture and the community.

Music is a language, an expression of emotion that transcends international boundaries and unites all generations and nationalities. The Ukrainian Youth Ensembles look forward to showcasing new partnerships in our global community.