The Ukes is a collective of musicians who share a passion for playing Ukrainian music with me. Our style is upbeat, taking traditional Ukrainian music and serving it up with big vocals, accordion, bass and drums, and whatever other instrument seems fitting. I was the original accordionist and a co-songwriter with British indie folk rock band The Ukrainians. I am also a qualified gym instructor/personal trainer and swimming teacher. www.fitness-programmes.com will take you there, but the music will never really stop, speaking of which, you will find me on iTunes via http://www.the-ukrainian.co.uk as Stepan a.k.a. Ludwig .
Why this name?
The word "Ukes" is an abbreviated term for Ukrainians that people of Ukrainian decent in the English speaking world use, much like Brits for British or Iti's for Italians
Do you play live?
Yes we play live, everything from Ukrainian traditional dance functions, to world music pop festivals, to specialised music clubs. So far appearances have ranged from Canada, to Britain, France and Germany.
How, do you think, does the internet (or mp3) change the music industry?
It's a good levelling ground where people can search for music of their choice rather than have it spoon fed to them by the industry.

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