Georgian polyphonic singing

Georgian polyphonic singing

Popular singing has a highly valued place in Georgian culture. Polyphonic singing, in the Georgian language, is a secular tradition in a country whose language and culture have often been oppressed by invaders. There are three types of polyphony in Georgia: complex polyphony, which is common in Svaneti; polyphonic dialogue over a bass background, prevalent in the Kakheti region in Eastern Georgia; and contrasted polyphony with three partially improvised sung parts, characteristic of western Georgia. The Chakrulo song, which is sung at ceremonies and festivals and belongs to the first category, is distinguished by its use of metaphor and its yodel, the krimanchuli and a “cockerel’s crow”, performed by a male falsetto singer. Some of these songs are linked to the cult of the grapevine and many date back to the eighth century. The songs traditionally pervaded all areas of everyday life, ranging from work in the fields (the Naduri, which incorporates the sounds of physical effort into the music) to songs to curing of illnesses and to Christmas Carols (Alilo). Byzantine liturgical hymns also incorporated the Georgian polyphonic tradition to such an extent that they became a significant expression of it.

Having previously suffered the drawbacks of socialist cultural policies, traditional Georgian music is now threatened by rural exodus as well as by the increasing success of pop music. In many archives one finds recordings of polyphonic songs from the beginning of the twentieth century; these recordings are, however, not secure enough to guarantee the long-term preservation.

Folk Group of Pherkhisa

The Folk Group of Pherkhisa, established in 2008 under the guidance of choirmaster Natia Datuashvili, is a distinguished ensemble dedicated to preserving and promoting Georgia's rich folk traditions. Over the years, multiple generations have been raised within the group, fostering a deep connection to authentic performance styles and traditional forms.

Pherkhisa's repertoire is a vibrant collection of folk songs and hymns from various regions of Georgia, complemented by traditional dance performances that showcase the country's cultural heritage. Since its inception, the ensemble has actively contributed to Georgia's cultural scene, participating in numerous local and international festivals, conferences, symposia, religious celebrations, charity concerts, and competitions.

Notably, the ensemble performed at the opening of the 5th International Symposium of Traditional Polyphony in 2010. It has also achieved significant recognition, including winning the Grand Prix in 2025 and earning gold medals in the national children’s and youth choir competitions of Georgia in 2015, 2017, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.

Internationally, Pherkhisa has successfully toured Poland in 2016, 2019, and 2022, Germany in 2019, and Lithuania (Klaipėda) in 2024, further showcasing Georgia's musical traditions to the world.