24th Annual Student Research Conference
Georgian Sacred Chants and National Unity
Giorgi Amashukeli
Prof. Shirley McKamie, Faculty Mentor
If one wants to experience the sound of early Christian worship, hearing Georgian sacred chants will provide an excellent means. Known to be one of the earliest Christian cultures, Georgian Christianity developed from the 1st century, reaching its peak in the Golden Era of the 11th to 12th centuries. The uniqueness of the Georgian language and the three-voice polyphonic structure of Georgian Chants combine to create an extraordinary sense of music and ancient Christian ritual. The struggles of the country, with many aggressors over several centuries, have not diminished Georgian identity as Orthodox Christian, and the Churchs sacred chants are undoubtedly an eminent part of this national character. The Republic of Georgia, which in 1991 gained independence from the Soviet Union, finds strength in its ancient Church traditions. The challenge now is to preserve ancient documents and singing styles, so that this heritage may be passed to future generations.
Keywords: Georgia, Country, Christianity, Sacred Chants, Orthodox Christianity, Polyphonic Music, Interdisciplinary, History, Georgian Language
Topic(s):Interdisciplinary
Music
History
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 37-6
Location: MG 1098
Time: 4:00