Mykhailo Matsialko, founder and leader of the legendary band "Sokoly," has died

On Monday, March 30, 2026, People’s Artist of Ukraine Mykhailo Matsialko passed away after a long illness.

 The Department of Culture and Tourism Development of the Drohobych City Council announced the death of the outstanding singer, founder, and longtime artistic director of the Drohobych band “Sokoly.” The musician dedicated his career to the development of Ukrainian music, standing at the very origins of the band’s creation alongside his wife Maria Shalaykevych and his late brother Ivan.

The “Sokoly” band, founded in 1990, gained worldwide recognition, playing to sold-out crowds in stadiums across Ukraine, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Under the leadership of Mykhailo Matsialko, the group set a record in 1999 by conducting a nine-month nationwide tour with over 170 solo concerts. The ensemble represented the country at international festivals and won numerous song competitions. The artist’s creative legacy and his contribution to the promotion of national culture remain landmark achievements in the history of modern Ukrainian music.

As a reminder, director and photographer Dmytro Stoykov, co-author of the film about Maidan, has passed away.

Ukrainian culture has suffered a heavy loss—on Sunday, March 29, the outstanding film director, actor, and People’s Artist of Ukraine Vilen Novak passed away.