On July 19, 2025, we were honored to bring Benefit Concert for Ukraine to Orange County, California.
This performance celebrated the vibrant legacy of Ukrainian culture, blending timeless traditions with innovative interpretations from emerging musicians. From the soulful strains of the bandura to contemporary arrangements, the evening captivated both first-time listeners and lifelong admirers alike.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the outstanding performers — Ostap Stakhiw and Solomia Stahiv — whose artistry and dedication made this concert evening truly unforgettable. The concert features two young talented singers Yelyzaveta Pakholchuk and Anastasia Koval, whose beautifully performed songs added a special warmth to the evening.
We are especially grateful for partnership and collaboration with Ukrainians in Orange County and Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, whose support and shared vision made this benefit concert possible.

Ostap Stakhiw is a renowned Ukrainian bandurist and a National’s Artist of Ukraine. He began his professional career in the Lviv Philharmonic and the “Vatra” ensemble, and later as a founder and leader of the “Folklore Theater of Ostap Stakhiw.” Ostap Stakhiw is a respected educator and accomplished bandura and vocal performer. He creat
Ostap Stakhiw is a renowned Ukrainian bandurist and a National’s Artist of Ukraine. He began his professional career in the Lviv Philharmonic and the “Vatra” ensemble, and later as a founder and leader of the “Folklore Theater of Ostap Stakhiw.” Ostap Stakhiw is a respected educator and accomplished bandura and vocal performer. He created and presented original theatrical concert programs and toured widely across Ukraine, the United States, Canada and globally. His work has been featured in numerous films and video productions. Dedicated to preserving the art of the bandura and served as a jury member for festivals and competitions. Ostap Stakhiw is a medalist at the 2001 World Championship of Performing Arts and the founder of BandurArts.

Solomia Stahiv is a Ukrainian musician and accomplished bandura player. She graduated from a bandura and piano program in Lviv, Ukraine and played in the National Bandura Ensemble “Zoryanytsia” under Honored Artist of Ukraine Zinovia Sychak. Now based in North America, she performs as a solo bandura artist throughout the United States an
Solomia Stahiv is a Ukrainian musician and accomplished bandura player. She graduated from a bandura and piano program in Lviv, Ukraine and played in the National Bandura Ensemble “Zoryanytsia” under Honored Artist of Ukraine Zinovia Sychak. Now based in North America, she performs as a solo bandura artist throughout the United States and Canada and is part of the Women’s Bandura Ensemble of North America (WBENA), sharing and promoting bandura music and Ukrainian culture. She is also an active member of BandurArts.

We are BandurArts! Bandura is a unique Ukrainian musical instrument that is the heart of Ukrainian culture, heritage and its traditions. We advance bandura music and art through performance, composition, learning and advocacy, as well as empowerment of bandura players locally and abroad. BandurArts is a U.S.- based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization for tax and donation purposes.

As Ukrainians in Orange County, we support this community to help raise funds for Ukraine, unite and strengthen our community through cultural preservation, education, and outreach. Our organization is committed to supporting refugees and Ukrainian defenders through active volunteering and collaboration. UAOC is a U.S.- based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization for tax and donation purposes.