Andril P, Grade 10, Kyiv

 Music is not only about listening, music is a powerful way to feel emotions, connect with others, and share who we are. Music tells stories, carries the traditions of different cultures, and links us to the past and present. It’s not just about hearing a song, it’s about being part of it. My name is Andrii P. , and my personal project is about how a full-scale invasion changed the Ukrainian music industry. I study in PSI, Kyiv, and the war's impact has been felt all over the place, from going to bomb shelters every time an air alert went off, to even listening to music. My final product was a video interview with one of the biggest stars in Ukraine, and how it was to switch from Russian to Ukrainian. Before the war, Ukrainian music often blended Russian and Ukrainian languages, with many artists performing in Russian to reach broader audiences, alongside a rich tradition of folk and classical music. After the 2014 conflict and especially the 2022 invasion, there was a strong shift toward Ukrainian-language music, emphasizing national identity and resilience. 

Folk elements, like bandura playing and traditional songs, surged in popularity, often fused with modern genres like hip-hop and techno. Music became a tool for cultural resistance, with artists rejecting Russian influences and focusing on Ukrainian heritage.