Eastern European Accordionist Sergey Tsukhai

We at the Focal Point would like to introduce you to our new “local” friend, Sergey Tsukhai! 

A couple years back, during one of our multi-artist showcases celebrating the annual World Accordion Day, a patron who had heard about the performance through the grapevine appeared with accordion in hand and requested a time slot. Though the slots were all pre-filled, we just couldn’t say no to his enthusiasm (and alluring accent). We extended the show and made room (thankfully) at the end. We say “thankfully” because Sergey, as it turned out, was a classically trained professional (retired) musician! He proceeded to play at such incredible levels of expertise that no one would have wanted to follow! It was an absolutely unexpected and amazing surprise that dumbfounded all in attendance!  Since then we have been more than anxious to have him back for his own show! At first, his natural modesty made him reluctant, but thanks to our growing friendship (and a bit of special convincing from our good friend Olga Novak) we are finally proud to have Sergey come to the center of the Focal Point stage.

Sergey Tsukhai was born in the mid-70s in the Soviet Union. He embarked on a musical journey that spanned continents and cultures at the age of 5, when his parents gifted him his first accordion. Many years of continuous studies forged Sergey into a classically trained virtuoso with a master’s degree in accordion performance and a bachelor’s in orchestral conducting from the esteemed Ukrainian National Tchaikovsky Academy of Music (formerly Kiev Conservatory). Seamlessly blending classical precision with soulful expression, Sergey’s repertoire transcends genres, pushing the accordion’s boundaries from Bach to Broadway. In his earlier years, Sergey toured extensively in Ukraine, Germany, and the USA, performing at academic halls, private venues, churches, and festivals. The vibrant sounds of his accordion resonated through many street concerts, leaving an indelible mark on diverse audiences. In 2004, Sergey made a life-altering decision to immigrate to the United States, where he settled here in St.Louis. However, the need for a steady income led him to step away from professional accordion performances, focusing on providing for his loved ones. After nearly two decades of musical silence, Sergey Tsukhai is making an inspiring return to the stage. This performance is more than a celebration of music; it is a testament to resilience, determination, and the unwavering spirit of an artist. 

Please join us for this extraordinary evening of talent, passion, and the timeless allure of Sergey Tsukhai’s accordion! You’ll be glad you did.