Simply Complex: The Basiani Vocal Ensemble Sings Georgian Polyphony

About the production

Georgian polyphonic singing is one of the great achievements of the small nation often described as the Balcony of Europe. The mastery of these folk songs, passed down over centuries from generation to generation, is astonishing to listeners accustomed to Western musical traditions. The harmonies and voice leading are so unconventional that Igor Stravinsky once said, “What the Georgians sing is more important than all of modern music’s new discoveries. It is unmistakable and simple. I have never heard anything better.”