July 29, 2026
Canadian Art Song Project (CASP) is pleased to announce a new commission for acclaimed Canadian composer Larysa Kuzmenko, made possible through the generous support of the Shevchenko Foundation.
Composer Larysa Kuzmenko
The commission will result in a suite of three new songs exploring the rich legacy of Ukrainian immigration to Canada and the stories, traditions, and artistic practices that have helped shape and continue to enrich Canada’s cultural landscape. The project reflects a shared commitment by CASP and the Shevchenko Foundation to fostering new artistic creation while celebrating the enduring contributions of Ukrainian culture to Canada.
One of Canada’s most respected composers, Larysa Kuzmenko has built a distinguished career spanning orchestral, chamber, choral, and vocal music. Writing for the voice has remained a defining part of her artistic practice and her extensive catalogue of songs and larger vocal works demonstrates an exceptional understanding of the expressive relationship between words and music, making her an ideal composer for this commission.
For more than a century, successive waves of Ukrainian immigration have brought stories, traditions, music, art, and other forms of cultural expression to Canada. Preserved, adapted, and reimagined over generations, these traditions have become part of the country’s diverse cultural fabric. This commission honours that legacy through the creation of new Canadian art song inspired by those enduring traditions.
While the commission begins with the creation of three new songs for voice and piano, CASP views art song as a catalyst for artistic collaboration and creative exploration. The organization is committed to creating opportunities for commissioned works to engage audiences in multiple ways through collaborations with partner institutions and artists across disciplines. Further plans for the project will be announced as they develop.
The songs are currently in development, with completion anticipated later this year. CASP gratefully acknowledges the generous support of the Shevchenko Foundation in making this commission possible. Through this support, the Foundation is helping to foster the creation of new Canadian art song while celebrating the enduring contributions of Ukrainian culture to Canada’s artistic and cultural life.
by the Shevchenko Foundation