MAR'YANA JAGA PROJECT
​Founded in Sydney by Ukrainian singer, violinist, and charismatic soloist Mar’yana Sywak, Jaga Band began its journey as a vibrant celebration of Ukrainian folk traditions. Drawing on the rich heritage of Transcarpathian culture and incorporating authentic Eastern European instruments such as the sopilka, accordion, cymbalom, and violin, the ensemble quickly captured audiences with heartfelt songs of love, loss, and heroism, inspiring listeners to dance and sing along.
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Over time, Jaga Band has grown into a truly multicultural and trans-genre collective, blending Ukrainian folk with contemporary electro-folk, jazz improvisation, and global rhythms.
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Since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Mar’yana Sywak and Jaga Band have also been dedicated cultural ambassadors, fundraising for Ukraine, raising awareness of the war, and collaborating with international artists in support of Ukrainian victory.
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With its fresh electro-folk sound, high-energy performances, and multicultural spirit, Jaga Band brings together world-class musicians from Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania, Serbia, Australia, and India. Under Mar’yana’s magnetic leadership, the group continues to redefine folk traditions for today’s global audiences.
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BAND LEADER:
MAR'YANA SYWAK vocals | violin | guitar​
SESSION MUSICIANS:
LUDMILA NICOLSKY cymbalom​
TATJANA MARX accordion ​
MAHARSHI RAVAL Indian tabla
JACINTA MICUS flute ​
NICOLE MURRAY-PRIOR double bass ​
DIMITRI KANIKEVICH drums | percussion​
ALEX PARKMEN piano | keyboard​
ANATOLI TORJINSKI cello
ILYA BAYER button accordion
TIM BRIGDEN drums | percussion​