Joseph Staszko
Joseph Staszko Bio
Our next recipient for the Legendary Achievement Award is Joseph Staszko from Alberta. Joe has written his biography that I know you will find most interesting!
I would like to thank the Ukrainian Musicians Association for this honour, and would also like to thank my very dear friend Rick Wowk for nominating me.
My almost 50 year journey started when I was 10 years old. My father introduced me to the violin, and my Dido introduced me to Ukrainian music.
After the family band, I played with Bill Ozipko and the Travelling Rangers. We played at the Ukrainian Village, and many senior dances.
Then I joined Steven Chwok and Prairie Pride. We entertained at many Ukrainian events in Western Canada. The band was showcased at various events. We also created 2 albums, with one being released in Dauphin, that I have listened to and enjoyed many times! Our band played at numerous weddings, including those of Ukrainian dancers, until the band retired in 2002.
Later, I played with "Kory KIOS and the Riders", formally the "Rainbow Riders". While entertaining in Country Bars, at weddings, and booked for the opening act for well known Canadian Stars, I introduced Ukrainian music to a whole new generation.
Wanting to get back to my Ukrainian roots, Johnny Moroz, Clint Moroziuk, Marty Mudryk, Johnny Locker, Frank Albert and myself, started the band "Kalabai". We released 2 albums and placed "Top Five" at the CMA awards in the "Worlds Category" in 2009.
I taught Ukrainian violin music with Charlie Gargus at weekend camps for 10 years in Mudare, Alberta. Each year it was exciting to see over 50 aspiring artists eager to learn!
Since 2010, I've been playing with "Rick Wowk and the Playboys" out of Edmonton, Alberta. I love all styles of music and specific songs. I trained classically for 10 years, and received "First Class Honors" in Grade 8 at the Royal Conservatory. I play multiple instruments, sing and write songs, however, my heart belongs to Ukrainian music.
Growing up listening to the Ukrainian Hour on CFCW Edmonton, I was inspired to learn the program's introduction, Al Cherny's "Early Bird of Spring". My other loves are "Carol of the Bells" at Christmas, and playing the "Kolomayka" where you can feel the energy explode in the room!
None of this would have been possible without the support from my wife Linda, who I met playing for her parents' 25th wedding anniversary. Many of my close friends and extended family have also supported me, including the Ardrossan Yatran Dance Group.
I am passing the torch. My daughter Maria dances with Studia Shumka, and my sons Mark and Bruce volunteer at many Ukrainian events, and participated in various workshops at the Ukrainian Village east of Edmonton.
I have been influenced by the people around me; the musicians, the crowds, the dancers, and the friendships that were made. This is the inspiration to my Ukrainian soul, and we can not forget the great Ukrainian food!
Ukrainians are good people, and God bless them!
Sincerely,
Joseph Staszko
The Ukrainian Musicians Association is pleased to honor and recognize Joseph Staszko for his lengthy contribution to the Western Canadian Ukrainian Music scene. Please put your hands together as we welcome a fellow musician, Joseph Staszko, on receiving UMA's "Legendary Achievement Award"!