Ensemble Rustavi to showcase Georgian polyphony in London

Georgia's internationally recognised folk song and dance ensemble Rustavi is set to showcase the country's famed polyphonic singing to listeners at London's British Library venue tomorrow.

Promoted as "Georgia’s leading vocal ensemble", the choir will enjoy diplomatic and celebrity support for their debut to the audience.

Ambassador of Georgia Tamar Beruchashvili and United Kingdom-based Georgian singer Katie Melua will introduce them to the enthusiasts of folk music performances in attendance.

Our Season of Sound kicks off tomorrow with the world-famous Rustavi Choir, introduced by @katiemeluahttps://t.co/OBd1KrdAMI#BLSoundspic.twitter.com/AQ5rIadCKZ

— The British Library (@britishlibrary) September 29, 2017

Their beautiful and ancient polyphonic singing tradition is a tradition at the heart of Georgian cultural identity and is said to be the earliest in the Christian world. In 2001 it was among the first on the UNESCO list of Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity", said a preview of the concert by the venue.

Beside the song and dance shows the choir has become known for, the event will involve educational talks on Georgian folk music and history of its recordings dating back to the early 20th century.

Held at the British Library Knowledge Centre, the series will involve the story of recordings made by the Gramophone Company in the Caucasus and Central Asia from 1901-1914, with extracts from the recordings also featured.

Acclaimed singer and musicologist Anzor Erkomaishvili, who founded the ensemble in 1968, will talk about the history of maiden phonorecords made in Georgia to preserve the country's polyphonic heritage.

Singers of the ensemble, while performing in choir, are also known for their soloist talents. Photo: Ensemble Rustavi.

Also as part of the talks, Tbilisi State Conservatoire rector Rezo Kiknadze will share his insight on history and modern day of Georgian music.

The British Library concert will mark the latest show of Rustavi in the United Kingdom. A performance by the ensemble launched the Festival of Voice in the Welsh capital Cardiff last year.

The choir has also been hosted on stages of prestigious venues including the Royal Albert Hall, Carnegie Hall and Concertgebouw Amsterdam.

Rustavi have performed and recorded over 600 folk songs, released 10 LPs and 10 CD recordings.