Music, as a refuge for many Ukrainians: Tatiana’s story

Budapest, 23 September 2024 – The story of the renowned Ukrainian choir in Budapest began within the walls of the Budapest Helps! Information and Community Centre over two years ago, shortly after the Russian Federation's invasion of Ukraine. 

Tatiana, the choirmaster has been singing her whole life. She pursued her dream and became a music teacher back home in Ukraine.

"Back in Transcarpathia, I was a musician and music teacher," Tatiana shares. "Singing, vocals, choirs — it's been a part of me since I was born. I was lucky to relocate here before the war began, but I struggled to continue my career because I didn’t speak the language. Then, after the war broke out, many more Ukrainians arrived." 

As the war escalated, forcing many Ukrainians and Third Country Nationals to seek refuge in Hungary, the community sought a shared experience that could bring a sense of unity to the lives of those displaced.  

“When Ukrainians sing, they come together. Our songs unite us, making us more resilient and helping us cope with the stress of war,” Tatiana emphasizes. "Now, we are glad to perform at the very place where our journey began, as we take the stage for the Second Anniversary Celebration of the Budapest Information and Community Centre.” 

Although she never pushed it, Tatiana's whole family has a strong connection to music. Her husband and daughter sing and her son plays the piano. They often join Tatiana and the choir to spend time together. Her son realised that he was passionate about music when he was 18. 

"My son always loved music but never pursued it on his own, so I didn't push him. One day, I came home to find him playing our piano with headphones on, trying to figure out notes by ear. Despite being 18 and having no formal training, he started private lessons and continued ever since,” shares Tatiana. “I hope my daughter will follow a similar path,” she adds with a smile.  

As the war persists, many Ukrainians find solidarity through music and art. For Tatiana and her choir, singing offers an escape the harsh reality in their home country. They gather at Budapest Helps’ Information and Community Centre every week to connect through their shared enthusiasm for music, which now they could share with the broader community while performing at the Centre’s Second Anniversary celebration.

IOM Hungary remains dedicated to supporting people on the move and promoting the socioeconomic inclusion of those seeking refuge in Hungary through initiatives that focus on the well-being and empowerment of beneficiaries.