You are invited to a day-long singing workshop with the Georgian ensemble Ori Shalva.

Take part in a Georgian singing workshop and join the thousands of voices that have perpetuated this thousand-year-old folk tradition, recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of intangible cultural heritage. Rooted in the Caucasus, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgian polyphony is renowned for its haunting harmonies and rich regional diversity, defying Western musical conventions.

During this one-day workshop, we will explore songs from across Georgia, from lively travel and toast songs to Christmas carols and meditative chants. Lyrics (and sometimes sheet music) will be provided, but songs will mainly be taught by ear in order to better convey the subtle musical nuances of this tradition. We will also work on vocal techniques characteristic of Georgia and situate the songs in their cultural and historical context. If time and energy permit, we may even learn a traditional circle dance, combining song and movement.

Ori Shalva, also known as the “Makharashvili Family,” is one of the few professional ensembles in the Georgian diaspora. The members of this Toronto-based ensemble are Shalva, a singer and traditional Georgian instrumentalist; Andrea, a professional singer and leading figure in Georgian singing ethnomusicology; and their son, Shalva-Lucas. The group has been offering workshops to polyphony enthusiasts for 20 years.

No knowledge of Georgian is required; singers must be comfortable singing in harmony and eager to learn.

For a glimpse of Georgian singing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4aJMFpA8kg&t=9s