Posted 12:33 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024
An Evening with Zedashe in La Crosse
By Mike Olson
On September 10, 2024, the Cappella Performing Arts Center in La Crosse resonated with the enchanting sounds of the Zedashe ensemble, a polyphonic vocal choir from the Republic of Georgia. Georgian polyphony is a unique and ancient vocal tradition hailing from the Caucasus region, known for its lush harmonies and intricate structures. Zedashe is one of the few mixed (male and female) choirs in Georgia that is led by women.
The performance at Cappella was a mesmerizing journey through Georgia’s musical heritage. The audience was captivated by the ensemble’s intricate harmonies, which date back to pre-Christian times. The evening was not just a concert but a cultural experience, highlighting the importance of preserving and sharing traditional art forms.
Interested in learning more about Georgian polyphony? Here are some key resources available at Murphy Library:
- Get started with Gale One File’s Music of Georgia page
Music Recordings
Academic Journals
- Explore the relationship between music and ideology with the article “Social and Political Constructions of Nation-Making in Relation to the Musical Styles and Discourses of Georgian Duduki Ensembles” in The Journal of Musicological Research.
- Consider the intersection of polyphony and patriarchy with "A Man Can Sing and Play Batter than a Woman: Singing and Patriarchy at the Georgian Supra Feast” in Ethnomusicology Review
Dissertations
- Research in depth with Setting the Tone: Fluid Hierarchies in Contemporary Georgian Polyphony from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global
Books
- Ready to sing? Request a book!
Whether you’re a seasoned researcher or a curious newcomer, the library is your gateway to the rich world of Georgian polyphony. Feel free to reach out if you need any more information or assistance!