Career in Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus
Oleh Mahlay became the artistic director and conductor of the world-renowned Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus in April 1996 at the age of 26. He is the youngest artistic director in the Chorus' then 85-year history. Mahlay's lifelong association with the ensemble, a deep appreciation of the bandura and Ukrainian music, along with his diverse musical background and skills have brought a new and exciting vision to this award-winning group.
Mahlay became a member of the artistic committee of the ensemble in 1992, and in 1994 was given the responsibilities of assistant conductor. He participated in the Chorus' two triumphant tours of Ukraine in 1991 and 1994, and had his premier as a conductor of the group in 1994. In the last few years he has also given lecture demonstrations at public schools as well as universities.
Currently, Oleh Mahlay is a practicing attorney in the Cleveland area. He continues to teach voice and bandura, and frequently lectures and conducts workshops both in the Northeast Ohio area and throughout the United States and Canada. He also acts as the vocal coach for the female Ukrainian folk trio Native Spirit (Ridna Dusha). The Ukrainian Bandurist Chorus has released six audio recordings with Mahlay at the helm. The Ukrainian Steppe, A Bandura Christmas, Golden Echoes of Kyiv: The Divine Liturgy, The European Tour (2003), Bayda (2005) and 1659(2007) also feature some of the artistic director's compositions and arrangements.
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