Originally from Montreal, Sophie Lukacs‘s journey in music traces back to her roots in Budapest. With a rich background in classical violin and a deep appreciation for Hungarian folk traditions, Sophie’s artistic identity took a transformative turn when she discovered the enchanting sounds of the kora, a West African harp-lute.
Sophie’s music is a reflection of her journey—a journey rooted in love, vulnerability, and a profound connection to her diverse influences. Her debut album, released in April 2023, is a testament to this fusion of cultures and emotions. Featuring collaborations with the legendary Habib Koité, Sophie’s music transcends borders and speaks to the universal language of human experience.
Nominated for the prestigious Canadian Folk Music Award in the category of Global Roots Album of the Year for her album, Bamako, Sophie brings a unique blend of cultural influences and musical expertise to her craft.
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m Sophie Lukacs, a Budapest-born, Montreal-based artist. I grew up studying the violin and Western classical music. Of Jewish Hungarian descent, I am most inspired by music’s power to move and bring people together. I am the granddaughter of Eva Fahidi, a prominent writer and dancer who survived the Holocaust, and with whom I sang Hungarian folk songs growing up.
In my early 20s, I travelled to Burkina Faso, where I first discovered the musical culture of the Mandingue tradition, and its majestic instrument: the kora. The music moved me deeply. Yet, I couldn’t imagine how to learn the instrument, since the kora is traditionally reserved for men from the “griot” caste. Years later, one memorable day, riding the subway, I stepped out at Columbus Circle and heard the call of the kora. Following the music I found kora master Malang Jobarteh playing in the station. It’s the sign I had been waiting for.
I began studying the kora in New York, then traveled to Paris for a masterclass with kora legend Toumani Diabaté. When he invited me to continue my studies with him in Bamako, it was an easy decision. I moved to Mali and spent 7 years there. With the blessing and encouragement of my teachers and mentors, including Habib Koité, and Hawa Kassé Mady Diabaté, and with profound gratitude for all they had shared with me, I began to compose my own music on the kora. On stage, I perform with cellist/bassist Laszlo Koos and percussionist/vocalist Noel Mpiaza and sing in all the languages I speak: English, French, Hungarian, and Bambara.
Congratulations on being nominated for the Canadian Folk Music Awards. How does it feel to be recognized among such a talented pool of Canadian folk musicians?
I am so excited and incredibly honoured to be nominated this year.
What inspired your latest works or albums that brought you to be nominated for the CFMAs?
My album that is up for nomination is called “Bamako” in homage to the city and country that welcomed me into this musical tradition. The album draws from all of my musical formations (Western classical, Hungarian folk, and Mandingue), and was recorded mostly in Bamako, where I invited a lot of my teachers and musical heroes.
CFMA president Graham Lindsey mentioned that the CFMAs are an important moment for Canada’s folk music community to celebrate outstanding talent. How has the folk music community shaped your journey as musicians, and what does this recognition mean to you in that context?
While I haven’t been back in Canada for long (2 years), during this time, the folk community has been incredibly welcoming and supportive of my music, and I am incredibly grateful for that. Whether through festival invitations, media coverage, or showcasing support, it has given me invaluable support to keep building my career in Canada.
With the CFMA Awards Weekend taking place in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, what are you most looking forward to during this celebration of folk music?
I am excited about so many things for the CFMA awards! There are so many incredible artists performing and nominated – some are friends, some I’m excited to meet – and I really looking forward to seeing all their performances. I’ve never been to St. Johns so equally excited to discover this part of Canada. I’m looking forward to meeting the delegates (presenters and media), having meetings, and of course meeting Tom Power! 🙂
Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring folk musicians who hope to one day be recognized on a platform like the Canadian Folk Music Awards?
I’m not sure I’m in any place to give advice, but if I have to, I’ll paraphrase the great Patti Smith, who said ” Don’t worry about making a bunch of money or being successful. Be concerned with doing good work.”