"One of the best choirs on the planet"

SACRED CHANTS AND SONGS OF UKRAINE

Since 1992 music lovers have been enthralled by the singing of the Boyan Ensemble, whose 20th consecutive tour of the UK is scheduled in 2011 with 26 concerts nationwide.

The Boyan Ensemble, a fully professional choir, is renowned for its magnificent sound: deepest bass (perhaps only the Slavs can produce such voices) blending seamlessly with baritone and tenor. In many of the works a single lyric soprano soars above the smooth tones of the men, adding a unique quality that distinguishes this choir from all others.

A programme of Eastern rite sacred music (Orthodox chant) in part 1, reflects the intense spiritual drama of a religion banned under the Soviet regime, while Part II showcases the vibrant and exciting folklore of Ukraine with a kaleidoscope of songs in many moods. Traditional instruments, including Bandura and tsimbali, feature in this section of the programme. A British fan recently summed it up "Brilliant concert: Cassocks in Part 1 and Cossacks in Part 2".

"The standard of musicianship is breathtaking"