Tangi Ropers of Toronto band Moskitto Bar could be referring to Sunfest’s mission statement when he says, “It is not only about the music. In a deeper way it is about the connection between cultures.”  Moskitto Bar creates a fresh and beautiful sound through its original mix of Ukrainian, Balkan, Middle Eastern and French Celtic music.  Accordion, percussion, violin, cimbalom (hammer dulcimer) and vocals come together in an infectiously spirited and original way that invites you in to share in the joy. The band’s motto is “Connecting Cultures For a Better Future” and in that spirit they have shared stages with Bosnian icon Bozo Vreco, the Burdon Fold Band from Ukraine and other outstanding international artists.

Moskitto Bar was formed after Tangi met newcomers Yura Rafaliuk (Ukraine) and Ahmed Moneka (Iraq) during a daily music workshop in the Northern Ontarian woods. While getting eaten alive by mosquitos, the three discovered that they shared a deep bond and a common desire to spread messages of unity. Almost two years later, the trio connected with celebrated violin player Fethi Nadjem, newly arrived from Algeria, and added his aromatic North African flavour to their mix.

Toronto saw the band playing on the streets, at community events and bars and more recently in larger venues and festivals like the Opera House, Koerner Hall and Drom Taberna. Now they are ready to enchant TD Sunfest audiences.