Ukraine's abundant heritage of singing includes thousands of carols. This anthology introduces an ancient culture that is nevertheless new to world audiences. In this book, the carols become a prism through which all of Ukraine's history, culture, and vibrant spirit are brought to light. It includes the internationally celebrated "Carol of the Bells"in its original version as a winter song of gratitude and resilience, and it covers sacred and secular pieces for the Christmas to New Year's season: from early chant to elaborate new choral fantasies. Transliterations and translations make the carols accessible to a broad audience. Along with music scores, it shares the stories behind each carol: historical context, biographies of composers, explanations of winter rituals. Written during Russia's war on Ukraine, the book is also journalistic. These carols often carry gripping narratives of a unique choral activism that has helped Ukraine, its language, and its people to survive.
Arvustused
'Marika Kuzma's book provides an extraordinary introduction to Ukrainian Christmas music, offering an all-embracing understanding of its cultural significance. This volume is a treasure trove for choral conductors and singers, destined to become both a classic reference and a cherished collection for exploration and performance. These carols embody a soulfulness that deeply moved me.'Craig Hella Johnson Artistic Director, Conspirare, and Artistic Partner, Oregon Bach Festival 'There are more treasures in Ukrainian musical culture than 'Carol of the Bells,' demonstrates Marika Kuzma in this groundbreaking anthology. A unique book that one can not only read but also sing.'Serhii PlokhyAuthor, The Gates of Europe: A History of Ukraine 'The recent horrendous invasion of Ukraine has given heightened urgency to the study and promulgation of Ukrainian culture. Marika's comprehensive anthology and passionate scholarship shines a bright light on the vital choral tradition in Ukraine and makes it accessible to choirs, conductors, and music lovers around the world.'Grant GershonGrammy Award Winning Artistic DirectorLos Angeles Master Chorale
Marika C. Kuzma is a critically acclaimed conductor and choral historian who has performed repertoires from many centuries and diverse countries. She has directed music by composers from Hildegard to Dufay, Bach, Mozart, Verdi, Messiaen, Britten, Reich, Weston in venues such as Carnegie Hall, NYC, Stephansdom in Vienna, Austria, Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, USA and the Kyiv Mohyla Academy, Ukraine. Kuzma is a Professor Emerita of the University of California, Berkeley, USA. Her experience in producing a critical edition of Dmitry Bortniansky's choral concertos (Carus Verlag) and in scrutinizing scores by Brahms and Stravinsky for scholarly articles has guided her process of researching and curating this anthology. She has given invited talks at universities across North America and at the Kyiv and Moscow conservatories. Of Ukrainian descent, she is honored to create this bridge to the culture of her forebears.
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