DAVID CAPIELLO Enthralling Global Audiences with His Extraordinary Voice
August 13, 2024
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Kostia Lucky, with his breathtaking and unique performances, has captivated audiences around the globe. From his early beginnings, where his prodigious talent first began to shine, to his rise as an international superstar, Kostia’s journey is one of passion, perseverance, and relentless dedication to his craft. Today, we have the pleasure of delving into the life and mind of this remark-able musician who is making history with his performances. Join us as Kostia Lucky shares insights into his early influences, his artistic process, and the experiences that have shaped him into the violinist he is today.
Kostia, please tell us about yourself, where you were born, and your early influences. What inspired you to pick up the violin? I was born in a little city in western Ukraine called Chernivtsi. This city is very close to the European border and has a unique and rich cultural history. Growing up around the beautiful architecture and traditions has shaped my style and classy taste for decades to come. My mom really wanted me to become a musician but our family was poor and could not afford to buy a new musical instrument. So, she found an old little violin hanging on the wall and said: “You’ll play this!”
Do you remember your first violin and how you felt when you first played it? One of the most interesting stories about my musical beginnings with the violin is about my first violin teacher. He was a very respected teacher in our area, and after teaching 5-year-old Kostia for a couple of months he said: “This boy will never be a violinist in his life, this is not for him.” Thankfully my mom didn’t give up on her dream and found me another teacher who has taught me a lot of skills By Isabel López in my formative years.
Who were some of your most influential teachers or mentors during your formative years? I was really fortunate to have some of the best teachers in my area work with me on honing my skills in my childhood. The two most notable teachers are Natalia Liutova and Liudmyla Martyniuk – who come from long-standing violin traditions of the Odessa school. With them I explored the different techniques of playing and started developing my musical philosophy. In the States I got to study with Oleh Krysa and Charles Castleman. Those absolute masters have taught me the intricacies of a truly noteworthy performance and with them I discovered the true meaning of music. Photo Giano Currie
Which performances have been the most memorable for you and why? Some of my most memorable performances were my solo shows with my band. This has been the most long-standing and definitive dream of mine – to put on a show for the people, using the violin as the main instrument in a band, performing the best music from different eras and parts of the world. So, anytime that I get a taste of that means a lot to me and stays in my memory.
Have you collaborated with other artists? Is there a particular collaboration that stands out to you? Yes! I have had the pleasure of collaborating on stage with such well-known Ukrainian artists as – Oleh Skrypka (the father of Ukrainian rock), Okean Elzy (one of the most popular Ukrainian rock bands), and also Miami Sympho- ny Orchestra, Arturo Sandoval (a Cuban jazz trumpet genius), and many more. These collaborations have shaped my understanding of the responsibilities of a great musician and inspired my creativity and growth.
Can you describe your daily practice routine? How do you maintain such a high level of performance? I have done decades of practice using the methods from the classical school, which propelled me to the master level heights in proficiency and virtuosity. Besides that, I have incorporated a jazz way of practicing improvisation on my instrument which led me to finding my own unique voice and the ability to play every genre of music.
How do you choose the pieces you want to perform or record? Do you have a particular process? To be honest, it usually happens when I find a piece of music that totally captures my heart. When the inspiration strikes it is only right to do it justice and materialize the Spirit through music.
What’s your approach to interpreting a piece of music? Do you have a specific philosophy or method? For me, music is far more than just a set of matching sounds that flow well together. It is first and foremost about emotional exchange with my audience and making sure they are able to enter a state that is completely unusual and new to them. This gives my audience the opportunity to heal spiritually, explore the depths of their souls and reflect on the everyday blessings that come their way.
“My biggest inspiration is seeing the young generations become captivated by the violin after seeing my performances. That is what keeps me going and pushes my creativity.”
CHALLENGES AND INSPIRATIONS
Every artist faces challenges. Can you share a significant challenge you’ve faced and how you overcame it? I have definitely faced a lot of challenges in my life, and I’m grateful to God for them because they have made me into the person I am today. At one point I was homeless in my teens, another time I was alone in a new country (US) with no money and just my violin, some other time I was conscripted into the Ukrainian army during the war with no apparent way out. All of those times God’s hand was guiding me, gracefully taking me out of harm’s way and blessing me with new unexpected opportunities. Anything that happens to us happens for a reason and the only way to overcome it is to trust the higher plan and not fall into despair.
What inspires you to push the boundaries of your art? I’ve always been a rebel and pushed the boundaries of what’s ”acceptable” by the traditionalists. My biggest inspiration is seeing the young generations become captivated by the violin after seeing my performances. That is what keeps me going and pushes my creativity.
How do you handle the pressure of performing? To be honest I don’t feel pressure while performing, on the contrary I absolutely love it. I feel at home on stage in front of crowds, I’ve done it since I was very young. I know I’m fulfilling my mission when I perform, I was born for this!
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not playing the violin? Any hobbies or interests? I love traveling and exploring other cultures, that is how I enrich my life and get connected with other amazing humans.
Being an international artist means a lot of travel. Do you have a favorite city or country that you’ve performed in? So far I have really loved my shows in Paris, it’s an iconic city with lots of class and culture.
How do you think your background and culture have influenced your music and career? Being Ukrainian, it definitely shows in my music. From the songs that I pick to the musical language that I use during my improvisations. That being said I always love exploring other musical languages and I’m always open to learning and improving.
Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re particularly excited about? I am launching my new show called “Violution”. It is highlighting the much needed revolution that I bring to the world of violin. I perform some of the most well known melodies and songs from different eras and countries, all using my beautiful instrument. With this show I aim to show the versatility of the violin and cement it’s standing as a leading solo instrument capable of entertaining large crowds for a duration of a full show!
What are some of your musical goals for the future? Are there any pieces or venues you dream of playing? My goal is to create a show based on my experiences with my band and take it on the road. With my performances I aim to provide spiritual healing and refuge for all people who need it. I would definitely love to take it to the level where I can fill up stadiums and arenas of people and make everyone’s night.
What advice would you give to younger, aspiring violinists? Find your own voice, learn from traditions but don’t be afraid to break out of them. Your individuality is more important than following someone else’s idea of what and how you “should” play.
How do you balance your personal life with the demands of your career? To be honest, my career definitely comes before my personal life. I do have a tribe of really close friends who support me and we definitely know how to have fun when we go out!
What role do you think technology plays in modern music, and how has it impacted your work? Modern technology is wonderful for music, it allows us as musicians to achieve desired results faster and better. I do not feel threatened by AI since my work as an experience provider can never be replaced by a non-human.
How do you prepare mentally and emotionally for a major performance? I like to meditate on the mantra that is based on the un- derstanding of my purpose. I have been born into this world to give people the emotional experiences they need to feed their souls.
What message do you hope to convey to your audience through your music? I convey a strong emotional message of love, peace and healing, inspiring everyone to live out their best lives and enjoy them to the fullest!
Is there anything else you wish to say to your fans and followers? I love you, everyone who’s ever heard my music, understood my message and supported me. I want to thank you all and wishing you lots of blessings to come!
Thank you, Kostia, for sharing your incredible journey with us. We look forward to seeing where your artistry will take you next.
