Lubov Mandziuk’s musicological activity

Statement of the problem. The bandura art is an integral part of Ukrainian musical culture. Gender asymmetry is clearly noticeable in the process of its formation and development: for many centuries, the bandura playing was considered a “non-female” thing. However, the leveling of this asymmetry during the 20th century opened up new, gender-independent perspectives for this ancient art form. Among the well-known Ukrainian female bandura players of our time is Lubov Mandziuk – PhD in Art Studies, Associate Professor of the Folk Instruments of Ukraine Department at the Kharkiv I. P. Kotlyarevsky National University of Arts. Her contribution to the establishment and confirmation of modern bandura art in Kharkiv region and Ukraine in whole is determinative. Recent research and publications. Lubov Mandziuk’s artistic activity found coverage in the scientific investigations of О. Bobechko (2014), І. Lisniak (2019), S. Nikolenko (2021), І. Panasiuk (2002), Т. Sliusarenko (2015; 2018). However, the scientists only fragmentarily elucidate the considerable musicological achievements of the artist. Objectives, methods, and novelty of the research. The purpose of the study is to highlight and thoroughly analyse the musicological work by Lubov Mandziuk and reveal the significance of her activity for the development and popularisation of bandura art as an important component of national musical culture. The following scientific methods were used: comparative one, the method of critical analysis, as well as methods of systematisation and generalisation of the materials, which together gave the opportunity to analyse and estimate the scientific achievements by Lubov Mandziuk in musicological sphere. The represented study is the first attempt to comprehend the musicological sphere of Lubov Mandziuk’s activity. Results. A prominent place among modern musicologists who deal with the problematic issues of bandura performance belongs to Lubov Mandziuk. Numerous works of the scientist are devoted to the formation and development of the bandura art in the context of historical and musicological issues, to the peculiarities of functioning of the modern bandura performance, as well as the problems of studying and systematizing the methodical foundations of professional training for bandura players. The characteristic feature of Lubov Mandziuk’s research is the use of interdisciplinary approach and so-called “regional aspect”, which contribute to optimal solution of problematic issues in the bandura performance. Conclusions. The diversified musicological work of Lubov Mandziuk is aimed at the representation and popularisation of bandura art in all its manifestations. Performing, pedagogical, social and organizational activities of the artist had an undeniable influence on her musicological work. The achievements of the scientist dedicated to the issues of the bandura performance history and its modern development, as well as scientific and pedagogical studies in the field of bandura playing are in demand and topical in the national musical context, where the bandura art is one of an essential constituents.