Bandura on Bloor: Julian Kytasty (ft. Olha Petelko)
Friday, June 12, 2026
7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Royal York Road United Church
The Toronto Bandura Festival returns with a captivating evening of music at the Royal York Road United Church. This concert features the world-renowned bandurist Julian Kytasty, joined by Toronto-based guest performer Olha Petelko, for a showcase of the bandura—a traditional Ukrainian stringed instrument that blends the qualities of a lute and a zither.
The Performers
Julian Kytasty is a third-generation bandurist and a celebrated composer, conductor, and educator. Awarded the title “Honoured Artist of Ukraine” by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Kytasty has spent his career redefining the possibilities of the bandura, collaborating with artists ranging from Chinese pipa master Wu Man to klezmer revivalist Michael Alpert.
He will be joined by Olha Petelko, a native of Sambir, Ukraine, and an accomplished educator and performer who has become a vital part of Toronto’s Ukrainian musical community since her arrival.
A Concert for a Cause
This event is more than just a musical performance; all net proceeds will be donated to Project Soniashnyk, a Canadian non-profit that provides recreational rehabilitation camps in Ukraine for children of active or fallen members of Ukraine’s Armed Forces.
What to Expect
Attendees can look forward to an evening of deep tradition and innovative performance, followed by a post-concert reception where guests can meet the performers.
Practical Info: The concert takes place on June 12, 2026, at 7:30 PM at the Royal York Road United Church in Etobicoke. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support a meaningful cause while experiencing a unique cultural performance.
