Mykola Lysenko and Yakiv Hulak-Artemovskyi: to History of their Relationship

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to reveal the peculiarities of communication between Mykola Lysenko-conductor and amateur singer Yakiv Hulak-Artemovskyi. Research methodology. The following methods have been used in the research: exploratory, analysis and generalisation method to reveal the communication of the eminent master with this specific member of the choir, based on the latter’s memories and epistolary. Scientific novelty of the research. The article reveals for the first time certain aspects of Mykola Lysenko's work with the choir and the conductor's collaboration with the amateur singer Yakiv Hulak-Artemovskyi, his faithful assistant, who became the “right hand” of the conductor. Conclusions. Yakiv Hulak-Artemovskyi is a person from Mykola Lysenko's circle, extremely responsible and devoted. Understanding Mykola Lysenko's business, his impracticality in financial affairs, at the same time his great love for his native people and cheering for their future, he agreed to become a voluntary assistant of the artist. The relationship of Mykola Lysenko – an outstanding Ukrainian composer and conductor, with Yakiv Hulak-Artemovskyi – an amateur singer and choir manager must be a model of deep respect, tolerance, and an example of devoted service to the cause of Ukrainian choral art. The creative tandem of these caring personalities contributed to coordinated and successful work of the choir, preparation of concert programmes, organisation of tour trips, and the popularisation of the native song among the Ukrainian population. Mykola Lysenko and Yakiv Hulak-Artemovskyi were Ukrainian patriots, highly spiritual personalities, and hardworking people who defended the right of the people to be treated with dignity within or under the conditions of the colonialist policy of the Russian Empire: Mykola Lysenko as a defining cultural figure, whereas Yakiv Hulak-Artemovskyi was an average, but dedicated representative of Ukrainian citizenship. Both faithfully served their native people and the Ukrainian culture. Yakiv Hulak-Artemovskyi respected Mykola Lysenko as a talented artist, admired him as a personality, as well as, his ability to maintain independent views, even in the most difficult times. In turn, Mykola Lysenko valued Yakiv Hulak-Artemovskyi as a singer and head of the choir, and as a reliable assistant and adviser.

Key words: Mykola Lysenko, Yakiv Hulak-Artemovskyi, creative collaboration, relationships, choir.