John Frykas

John's love for Ukrainian music, song and dance evolved at an early age. An accomplished, self-taught musician, John played the guitar, violin, banjo and his greatest passion of all that cymbaly, which he learned to play by 12 years old. He could say John had an ear for music as he was a unable to read a note. John played with "The Frykas Family Band" entertaining for many years at weddings dances, community functions and house parties in the Mink Creek, Ethelbert, Rhodes, Garland and surrounding areas in the Parkland region. 

During World War 2, John and his brother Walter played a wedding for the daughter of a general in Sydney, NS.

In 1966, John received the very first cymbaly award, presented on stage at the National Ukrainian Festival, after which he continued to play that cymbaly which he built himself. John entertained on the Cossack’s float during the festival parades and along with his neighbor Peter Musey, performed on Profile on CKOS-TV talent show from Yorkton, SK.

In his retirement, John spent hours recording his favorite songs and musical pieces, which included a few pieces with his own son on guitar and his cousin Bill on violin.

At the age of 85, John played at his granddaughter's wedding and his daughter’s 25th anniversary. Three years later, he was given the honour of performing at the 100th anniversary celebration of the Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Mink Creek. 

On March 30th of 2005 at the age of 89, John passed away leaving a lifetime spanning 77 years of creating music that enriched 6 generations. His hand carved “Paeltseta” that he used to make beautiful notes will be with him forever, along with his love and pride of Ukrainian music, which played a huge part in his life and a treasured legacy left to his family, friends and everyone who had the pleasure of hearing him play.

1915 - 2005.  John Frykas played cymbaly with the Frykas Family Band.