1902 - 1972.  

Jim Gregorash was a legendary Ukrainian Fiddler, he recorded with numerous artists over the years.

Jim was born the fourth child of six to immigrant parents, “xxxx”; Jim was raised in Horod,  Manitoba. When Jim was seven, a family friend brought over a violin. Jim was fascinated with the violin and within a short time was able to compose tunes. 

At age 14, Jim was able to compete with the best of the old time fiddlers and was soon in demand to play at Ukrainian weddings. 

Jim married Mary Matiowsky and soon after Mary mastered the guitar to become Jim's partner in a two person band which performed for various community events. 

Jim taught many young fiddlers to play music without notes. In 1944, Jim purchased a “Record Waxing Machine” and recorded a few demos with Mary playing guitar and piano. Hearing these demos, Jim was inspired to pursue his music commercially. Jim went to Winnipeg to produce LP's for Regis Records. 

He formed a band with accomplished accordionist Mike Domish called “Jim Gregorash and His Orchestra”. They played weddings and dances at “Rainbow Dance Gardens”, and Jim continued to play for over 50 years. 

Jim Gregorash was one of the first musicians to start recording Ukrainian music. He set precedence for others to do the same. 

Jim passed away in 1972, leaving a great legacy for future generations. Truly a great legendary musician. 

Jim Gregorash, “The Pioneer of Ukrainian Dance Music”.