Myroslav Skoryk – outstanding composer, teacher, art critic, conductor, pianist, public figure. Holder of titles “Hero of Ukraine”, “People's Artist of Ukraine”, laureate of The Taras Shevchenko National Prize of Ukraine, academician of the Academy of Arts of Ukraine.

A Score For A Film, Becomes An Anthem Of The Spirit

Skoryk composed the evocative piece titled "Melody" for the 1982 Soviet war film "Vysokyy Pereval." Set in the tumultuous landscape of Galicia in the aftermath of World War II, the film faced the heavy hand of Soviet censorship, which skewed its narrative and portrayed Ukrainian nationalism in a negative light. Despite this oppressive environment, Skoryk accepted the challenge of scoring the film at the invitation of its director, Volodymyr Denysenko. He later reflected on the project, noting that many other composers had declined the opportunity to contribute to the film's score. However, Skoryk felt compelled to create music that would subtly and powerfully communicate the film's tragic and emotional themes, striving to resonate with audiences on a deeper level.

Originally, "Melody" was arranged for flute and piano, capturing a delicate yet poignant essence that echoed the film's narrative. Recognizing the potential for broader expression, Skoryk subsequently reimagined the piece for a variety of instruments, including arrangements for violin accompanied by piano or full orchestral support. This versatility allowed the music to adapt and evolve, enhancing its impact and ensuring that the emotional weight of the film was felt by viewers, even amid the constraints imposed by censorship. Through his innovative compositions, Skoryk carved out a space for artistic expression, imbuing the film with a haunting beauty that transcended its troubled context.

Renowned for blending jazz with Carpathian folk motifs, his captivating compositions have been performed by orchestras worldwide and even received the blessing of Pope John Paul II. Myroslav Skoryk held esteemed titles such as the longtime artistic director of the National Opera of Ukraine, Hero of Ukraine, and People's Artist of Ukraine, but it is his music that truly speaks volumes. His most famous piece, the deeply moving "Melody in A Minor," has become a spiritual anthem for the nation and has been performed globally.

Born July 13, 1938 in Lviv— Died June 1st, 2020 in Kyiv (aged 80)

Myroslav Skoryk's music captivates with its melodic brilliance, uniting listeners from all walks of life—amateurs and professionals alike. His compositions span a rich emotional spectrum, from delicate lyricism and joyful exuberance to profound tragedy, all resonating deeply with the human soul.

Born on July 13, 1938, in Lviv, Skoryk hailed from a distinguished family; his great-aunt was the renowned opera singer Solomia Krushelnytska, who first recognized his musical talent. He began his studies in 1945 but faced adversity when his family was politically repressed and sent to Siberia in 1947. There, he studied piano under Valentina Kantorova, a former student of Rachmaninov.

After Stalin's death, the Skoryk family returned to Lviv, where he studied composition at the Lviv Conservatory from 1955 to 1960, later continuing his education at the Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory. Skoryk became a prominent educator, teaching at the Lviv and Kyiv Conservatories and mentoring a generation of notable composers.

His vast artistic legacy encompasses nearly every musical genre, including opera, ballets, concertos, and chamber music. He is known for his popular songs from the 1960s, such as "Draw Me a Night" and "Don't Trample the Lilies of the Valley." His opera "Moses" received the blessing of Pope John Paul II, and he contributed significantly to the iconic film "Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors."

Skoryk's unique compositional style celebrated the Lviv school traditions while modernizing Ukrainian folklore, including Carpathian and urban music. Throughout his life, he led prominent artistic institutions, including the First Festival "Chervona Ruta" and the International Festival "KyivMuzykFest," shaping the cultural landscape of Ukraine.