Syd Puchailo

Syd Puchailo’s passion and dedication for playing Ukrainian music has been going strong for over 62 years. Growing up on the farm in the heart of the Parkland, Syd was inspired by the lively Ukrainian music at weddings, dances and anniversaries. His musical endeavours began in 1962 at the age of 14. He quickly learned to play several chords on his Uncle Walter’s steel guitar and in no time, got his hands on a guitar of his own. He practiced with and stepped in to perform lead or rhythm guitar with local musicians, known as the Drifting Kings: Mervin Robak, Leonard Manchur and Jerry Robak, later joined by Billy Kumka.

Anytime farming offered a break, Syd seized the opportunity to play music. He could often

be found playing pick-up with bands throughout the countryside, having the opportunity to play with local legends, such as Joe Genik of Gilbert Plains and Ernie and Betty Shewchuk of Meadow Portage area. In the early 80’s Syd played guitar with Danny Galay and sons, Tim and Rick working with the two young musicians to find their feet in Ukrainian music. Syd also played off and on with Clifford and Raymond Hadway of Valley River. After a few short years with Danny and sons, Syd began playing with Cliff on a regular basis. The group was booked for weddings and anniversaries, playing every second weekend travelling from Pine River to Winnipeg. They have been a staple of local talent at Dauphin’s National Ukrainian

Festival for the past 40 years playing annually in the parade and performing at Selo Ukraina

as invited. The band, of Cliff, Syd, Don Kushman, Bill Plesh† and Jim Symchych loved to bring the vibrant energy of Western Canadian Ukrainian music to the crowds, getting the parties started and eventually changed their name to P.T.O. “Party Time Orchestra”.

In 1994 PTO recorded two albums, “The Ukrainian Tradition” and “The Ukrainian Tradition Volume II”. Over the years, the addition of Cliff’s grandson Haydn, Patty Andreichuk and Manuel Nakonechny have rounded out the band. They have since recorded 3 more independent albums, “Party Time Orchestra”, “Party Time Orchestra - Volume 2” and “For Our Friends”.

At 76, Syd still enjoys getting together with the band and other musicians to perform,

keeping the Ukrainian music tradition alive!