Sweet Song

These young woman sang this song before the beginning of a symposium. As is the case in Ukraine, all official ceremonies, meeting, etc. are usually preceded by local talent singing and dancing. This symposium included a singing/dancing presentation by First Formers, a solemn remembrance of war dead, and this young woman. If I remember correctly, the song is about the cycle of love so there are mentions on seasons, harvests, etc. In any language, it is beautiful.

Singing On the Streets of Lviv

I have not witnessed as much singing as in the streets of Lviv. Perhaps it was because of the holidays: New New Year, Old New Year, Epiphany, New Old New New Year, etc. Or perhaps it is because Lviv is such a vibrant city. One evening I was walking near the Taras Shevchenko Monument (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9Z0nd_z3Qk) when I happened upon a group of older people singing. My Ukrainian is not that strong so I am unsure of the exact nature of the tune but it may be something patriotic as at the end everyone shouted "Слава Україна" (Glory to Ukraine!). Either way, I found it very moving standing in that square under the shadow of the great poet and patriot Shevchenko with the moon peeking through the clouds. Sorry for the lack of light in advance!

A few nights later I was walking with my friends when we came upon a group of young men busking in the chill of the night. They were singing a song from one of Ukraine's most famous rock groups Океан Ельзи (Ocean Elzy, http://www.okeanelzy.com/). Everyone seemed to know the song and many began to sing and to dance around. Of course there was the ubiquitous old dude singing loudly, trying to dance with the young girls. Happens in every country.  Either way, spirits were high despite the cold and everyone seemed to go home happy. Again, sorry for the video quality.