Polina Shepherd

Russian and Yiddish song workshop - SOAS, London.
2023-06-11 10:30 - 17:30 UTC | SOAS, University of London, Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, London, WC1H 0XG, United Kingdom
Part of SOAS summer schools. 10.30am – 5.30pm. A day of Russian and Yiddish singing workshop. Half a day for each, bookable as the whole day or pick your half.
BOOK HERE
Morning session (10am – 1pm) Yiddish Songs – £30
Afternoon session (2.30 – 5.30pm) Russian Songs – £30
Full day pass (10am – 5.30pm) £50
Yiddish Songs (10.30am – 1.30pm)
Yiddish, the 1000-year-old language of the Jews of Eastern Europe, is flourishing, as people young and old, Jewish and non-Jewish, explore its rich cultural heritage. Some of the songs come from the Yiddish theatre and cinema or describe the diverse lives of Jewish people across Eastern and Central Europe and all the countries they have emigrated to – their history, hopes, memories, politics, celebrations and resistance to oppression. Others are are spiritual and liturgical, particularly the nign – a melody that is believed to change consciousness. Join us in singing traditional and new Yiddish songs while also paying attention to the specific elements (ornamentation, phrasing, modes) of this singing style.
Russian Songs (2.30 – 5.30pm)
Russian folk songs embrace the whole of the landscape and all of Mother Earth. Lyrical songs call to mind the vastness of Russian topography stretching toward a boundless horizon. In Russian folklore, every snowflake and every blade of grass embodies the spirits of nature – and this connection is felt within each folk song for ritual pagan holidays, exorcism and sibylline song, circle dance, laments, wedding and lyrical songs… Come and experience the Russian landscape through song!
Music lovers of all backgrounds and singing levels are invited, no experience necessary. Learning by ear.
With Polina Skovoroda-Shepherd
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Village Harmony Adult New England Camp - USA, MA
2023-06-19 - 2023-06-25
EVENT PAGE on Village Harmony website

Come join us for seven days of eclectic musical stimulation in a perfectly-idyllic western Massachusetts summer setting. Venue: Stump Sprouts Retreat Center – Hawley, MA
The first of this summer’s two limited-enrolment New England adult camps will be led by a team of three wonderful teachers: Mollie Stone from Chicago, Frank Watkins from Wisconsin, and—joining our in person teaching team for the first time—Yiddish folk singer Polina Shepherd from the UK.
Authentic African American gospel and spirituals, South African dance-songs, and diverse music from eastern Europe and the Yiddish diaspora will head off our repertoire for the week.
The framework of the week-long residency will be communal, with everyone taking turns to help prepare meals and clean under the supervision of a head cook. Our menu will be primarily vegetarian and responsive to the tastes, needs and culinary talents of our camp participants. Evening events will likely include a Georgian-style supra (feast) and a cabaret night.
Village Harmony adult weeks tend to be relaxed and non-competitive, even as we emphasise authenticity and absorbing the spirit of each musical tradition. Written music may distributed for some songs, while other genres might best be taught by ear. Virtually everything will be taught by example.
The program will conclude with a simple, low-key concert to show off what we’ve accomplished during the week.

NOTE: Proof of vaccination against COVID-19 will not be required to attend our 2023 camps. Our programs’ covid-19 protocol will depend on the state of the pandemic.

Leaders: Mollie Stone, Polina Shepherd, Frank Watkins

Location: Stump Sprouts Retreat Center – Hawley, MA

Price: $900 ($700 commuters)
Enrolment will be limited to 24 housed on site, plus a handful of commuters. Stump Sprouts offers simple but very comfortable rooms each with two or three beds and shared bathrooms.

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Village Harmony Teen Camp. New England, USA
2023-06-30 - 2023-07-16
A teen singing camp in Massachusetts (June 30-July 6) followed by a 11-day concert tour around New England organised by Village Harmony.

More info and booking here

Village Harmony is an un-auditioned, inclusive group whose only demands of would-be members is that they be committed to making good music. This has resulted in a choir whose sound remains dynamic, unpredictable, and absolutely exciting year after year. With their easy command of phenomenally varied singing styles and infectiously joyous stage presence, Village Harmony ensembles always knock people’s socks off.

VH teen traveling camp is always led by a team of music leaders, including native teachers who bring first hand expertise in particular traditions.

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Village Harmony Teen World Music Ensemble - Hadley, MA
2023-07-07 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Halifax) | Wesley United Methodist Church, 98 N Maple St, Hadley, 01035, United States
Village Harmony, the remarkable teen world music ensemble, presents its annual summer concert program.
Friday, July 7, 7:00pm: Hadley, MA – Wesley United Methodist Church, 98 North Maple St

The group is led by Polina Shepherd from the UK, Sinead O’Mahoney, and Carl Linich. The 24 brilliant teen singers come from nine states plus Canada and France. Admission is by donation at the door. For further information visit www.villageharmony.org or email villageharmony@gmail.com.
Village Harmony, a non-profit umbrella organization based in Vermont, promotes the study and performance of ethnic singing traditions from around the world. For more than thirty years they have organized teen ensembles each summer in New England and ensembles for mixed-age and adult singers in numerous foreign countries. Each Village Harmony ensemble develops its own unique sound with a different team of leaders. All share common traits: a powerful, natural, unrestrained vocal sound; a remarkable variety of vocal styles and timbres appropriate to the ethnic and traditional music; and a visible, vibrant community among the singers and audience as they share in a joyful celebration of music.
Polina Shepherd was born in Siberia and grew up in a home where songs were regularly sung at a family table. She is now and internationally-renowned singer with a sound deeply rooted in eastern European Jewish and Russian folk. Her choir work is united by the umbrella of The Polina Shepherd Vocal Experience and covers many aspects of vocal music from highly arranged and conducted pieces to on-spot choral improvisations. VH alumna Sinead O’Mahoney has been singing and traveling with Village Harmony for 15 years. She has been praised for her sure command of rhythm and efficient teaching style, and will lead American shape-note songs as well as songs from the Balkans and South Africa. Carl Linich has been studying, singing, and teaching traditional polyphonic folk and liturgical music from Caucasus Georgia since 1990, and has been sharing it with Village Harmony for over two decades. He has directed the Supruli Choir in New York City, the Bard College Georgian Choir, and his own family trio with his two sons.

Related Images:

Village Harmony Teen World Music Ensemble - West Cummington, MA
2023-07-08 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Halifax)
Village Harmony, the remarkable teen world music ensemble, presents its annual summer concert program.

West Cummington, MA – Congregational Church, 27 West Main St

The group is led by Polina Shepherd from the UK, Sinead O’Mahoney, and Carl Linich. The 24 brilliant teen singers come from nine states plus Canada and France. Admission is by donation at the door. For further information visit www.villageharmony.org or email villageharmony@gmail.com.
Village Harmony, a non-profit umbrella organization based in Vermont, promotes the study and performance of ethnic singing traditions from around the world. For more than thirty years they have organized teen ensembles each summer in New England and ensembles for mixed-age and adult singers in numerous foreign countries. Each Village Harmony ensemble develops its own unique sound with a different team of leaders. All share common traits: a powerful, natural, unrestrained vocal sound; a remarkable variety of vocal styles and timbres appropriate to the ethnic and traditional music; and a visible, vibrant community among the singers and audience as they share in a joyful celebration of music.
Polina Shepherd was born in Siberia and grew up in a home where songs were regularly sung at a family table. She is now and internationally-renowned singer with a sound deeply rooted in eastern European Jewish and Russian folk. Her choir work is united by the umbrella of The Polina Shepherd Vocal Experience and covers many aspects of vocal music from highly arranged and conducted pieces to on-spot choral improvisations. VH alumna Sinead O’Mahoney has been singing and traveling with Village Harmony for 15 years. She has been praised for her sure command of rhythm and efficient teaching style, and will lead American shape-note songs as well as songs from the Balkans and South Africa. Carl Linich has been studying, singing, and teaching traditional polyphonic folk and liturgical music from Caucasus Georgia since 1990, and has been sharing it with Village Harmony for over two decades. He has directed the Supruli Choir in New York City, the Bard College Georgian Choir, and his own family trio with his two sons.

Related Images:

Village Harmony Teen World Music Ensemble - Newton, MA
2023-07-09 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Halifax)
Village Harmony, the remarkable teen world music ensemble, presents its annual summer concert program.

Newton, MA – Grace Episcopal Church, 76 Eldredge St

The group is led by Polina Shepherd from the UK, Sinead O’Mahoney, and Carl Linich. The 24 brilliant teen singers come from nine states plus Canada and France. Admission is by donation at the door. For further information visit www.villageharmony.org or email villageharmony@gmail.com.
Village Harmony, a non-profit umbrella organization based in Vermont, promotes the study and performance of ethnic singing traditions from around the world. For more than thirty years they have organized teen ensembles each summer in New England and ensembles for mixed-age and adult singers in numerous foreign countries. Each Village Harmony ensemble develops its own unique sound with a different team of leaders. All share common traits: a powerful, natural, unrestrained vocal sound; a remarkable variety of vocal styles and timbres appropriate to the ethnic and traditional music; and a visible, vibrant community among the singers and audience as they share in a joyful celebration of music.
Polina Shepherd was born in Siberia and grew up in a home where songs were regularly sung at a family table. She is now and internationally-renowned singer with a sound deeply rooted in eastern European Jewish and Russian folk. Her choir work is united by the umbrella of The Polina Shepherd Vocal Experience and covers many aspects of vocal music from highly arranged and conducted pieces to on-spot choral improvisations. VH alumna Sinead O’Mahoney has been singing and traveling with Village Harmony for 15 years. She has been praised for her sure command of rhythm and efficient teaching style, and will lead American shape-note songs as well as songs from the Balkans and South Africa. Carl Linich has been studying, singing, and teaching traditional polyphonic folk and liturgical music from Caucasus Georgia since 1990, and has been sharing it with Village Harmony for over two decades. He has directed the Supruli Choir in New York City, the Bard College Georgian Choir, and his own family trio with his two sons.

Related Images:

Village Harmony Teen World Music Ensemble - Yarmouth, ME
2023-07-10 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Halifax)
Village Harmony, the remarkable teen world music ensemble, presents its annual summer concert program.

7:00pm
Yarmouth, ME – Unitarian Church, 97 Main St

The group is led by Polina Shepherd from the UK, Sinead O’Mahoney, and Carl Linich. The 24 brilliant teen singers come from nine states plus Canada and France. Admission is by donation at the door. For further information visit www.villageharmony.org or email villageharmony@gmail.com.
Village Harmony, a non-profit umbrella organization based in Vermont, promotes the study and performance of ethnic singing traditions from around the world. For more than thirty years they have organized teen ensembles each summer in New England and ensembles for mixed-age and adult singers in numerous foreign countries. Each Village Harmony ensemble develops its own unique sound with a different team of leaders. All share common traits: a powerful, natural, unrestrained vocal sound; a remarkable variety of vocal styles and timbres appropriate to the ethnic and traditional music; and a visible, vibrant community among the singers and audience as they share in a joyful celebration of music.
Polina Shepherd was born in Siberia and grew up in a home where songs were regularly sung at a family table. She is now and internationally-renowned singer with a sound deeply rooted in eastern European Jewish and Russian folk. Her choir work is united by the umbrella of The Polina Shepherd Vocal Experience and covers many aspects of vocal music from highly arranged and conducted pieces to on-spot choral improvisations. VH alumna Sinead O’Mahoney has been singing and traveling with Village Harmony for 15 years. She has been praised for her sure command of rhythm and efficient teaching style, and will lead American shape-note songs as well as songs from the Balkans and South Africa. Carl Linich has been studying, singing, and teaching traditional polyphonic folk and liturgical music from Caucasus Georgia since 1990, and has been sharing it with Village Harmony for over two decades. He has directed the Supruli Choir in New York City, the Bard College Georgian Choir, and his own family trio with his two sons.

Related Images:

Village Harmony Teen World Music Ensemble - Eaton, NH
2023-07-11 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Halifax)
Village Harmony, the remarkable teen world music ensemble, presents its annual summer concert program.

7:00pm

Eaton, NH – Little White Church, 2371 Eaton Rd

The group is led by Polina Shepherd from the UK, Sinead O’Mahoney, and Carl Linich. The 24 brilliant teen singers come from nine states plus Canada and France. Admission is by donation at the door. For further information visit www.villageharmony.org or email villageharmony@gmail.com.
Village Harmony, a non-profit umbrella organization based in Vermont, promotes the study and performance of ethnic singing traditions from around the world. For more than thirty years they have organized teen ensembles each summer in New England and ensembles for mixed-age and adult singers in numerous foreign countries. Each Village Harmony ensemble develops its own unique sound with a different team of leaders. All share common traits: a powerful, natural, unrestrained vocal sound; a remarkable variety of vocal styles and timbres appropriate to the ethnic and traditional music; and a visible, vibrant community among the singers and audience as they share in a joyful celebration of music.
Polina Shepherd was born in Siberia and grew up in a home where songs were regularly sung at a family table. She is now and internationally-renowned singer with a sound deeply rooted in eastern European Jewish and Russian folk. Her choir work is united by the umbrella of The Polina Shepherd Vocal Experience and covers many aspects of vocal music from highly arranged and conducted pieces to on-spot choral improvisations. VH alumna Sinead O’Mahoney has been singing and traveling with Village Harmony for 15 years. She has been praised for her sure command of rhythm and efficient teaching style, and will lead American shape-note songs as well as songs from the Balkans and South Africa. Carl Linich has been studying, singing, and teaching traditional polyphonic folk and liturgical music from Caucasus Georgia since 1990, and has been sharing it with Village Harmony for over two decades. He has directed the Supruli Choir in New York City, the Bard College Georgian Choir, and his own family trio with his two sons.

Related Images:

Village Harmony Teen World Music Ensemble - Calais, VT
2023-07-12 19:00 - 21:00 UTC
Village Harmony, the remarkable teen world music ensemble, presents its annual summer concert program.

7:00pm

Calais, VT – Maple Corner Community Center, 84 W County Rd
The group is led by Polina Shepherd from the UK, Sinead O’Mahoney, and Carl Linich. The 24 brilliant teen singers come from nine states plus Canada and France.
Admission is by donation at the door.
For further information visit www.villageharmony.org or email villageharmony@gmail.com.
Village Harmony, a non-profit umbrella organization based in Vermont, promotes the study and performance of ethnic singing traditions from around the world. For more than thirty years they have organized teen ensembles each summer in New England and ensembles for mixed-age and adult singers in numerous foreign countries. Each Village Harmony ensemble develops its own unique sound with a different team of leaders. All share common traits: a powerful, natural, unrestrained vocal sound; a remarkable variety of vocal styles and timbres appropriate to the ethnic and traditional music; and a visible, vibrant community among the singers and audience as they share in a joyful celebration of music.
Polina Shepherd was born in Siberia and grew up in a home where songs were regularly sung at a family table. She is now and internationally-renowned singer with a sound deeply rooted in eastern European Jewish and Russian folk. Her choir work is united by the umbrella of The Polina Shepherd Vocal Experience and covers many aspects of vocal music from highly arranged and conducted pieces to on-spot choral improvisations.
VH alumna Sinead O’Mahoney has been singing and traveling with Village Harmony for 15 years. She has been praised for her sure command of rhythm and efficient teaching style, and will lead American shape-note songs as well as songs from the Balkans and South Africa.
Carl Linich has been studying, singing, and teaching traditional polyphonic folk and liturgical music from Caucasus Georgia since 1990, and has been sharing it with Village Harmony for over two decades. He has directed the Supruli Choir in New York City, the Bard College Georgian Choir, and his own family trio with his two sons.

Related Images:

Village Harmony Teen World Music Ensemble - Haverhill-NH
2023-07-13 19:00 - 21:00 UTC
Village Harmony, the remarkable teen world music ensemble, presents its annual summer concert program.

7:00pm

Haverhill, NH – Alumni Hall, 75 Court St
The group is led by Polina Shepherd from the UK, Sinead O’Mahoney, and Carl Linich. The 24 brilliant teen singers come from nine states plus Canada and France.
Admission is by donation at the door.
For further information visit www.villageharmony.org or email villageharmony@gmail.com.
Village Harmony, a non-profit umbrella organization based in Vermont, promotes the study and performance of ethnic singing traditions from around the world. For more than thirty years they have organized teen ensembles each summer in New England and ensembles for mixed-age and adult singers in numerous foreign countries. Each Village Harmony ensemble develops its own unique sound with a different team of leaders. All share common traits: a powerful, natural, unrestrained vocal sound; a remarkable variety of vocal styles and timbres appropriate to the ethnic and traditional music; and a visible, vibrant community among the singers and audience as they share in a joyful celebration of music.
Polina Shepherd was born in Siberia and grew up in a home where songs were regularly sung at a family table. She is now and internationally-renowned singer with a sound deeply rooted in eastern European Jewish and Russian folk. Her choir work is united by the umbrella of The Polina Shepherd Vocal Experience and covers many aspects of vocal music from highly arranged and conducted pieces to on-spot choral improvisations.
VH alumna Sinead O’Mahoney has been singing and traveling with Village Harmony for 15 years. She has been praised for her sure command of rhythm and efficient teaching style, and will lead American shape-note songs as well as songs from the Balkans and South Africa.
Carl Linich has been studying, singing, and teaching traditional polyphonic folk and liturgical music from Caucasus Georgia since 1990, and has been sharing it with Village Harmony for over two decades. He has directed the Supruli Choir in New York City, the Bard College Georgian Choir, and his own family trio with his two sons.

Related Images:

Village Harmony Teen World Music Ensemble - Norwich, VT
2023-07-14 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Halifax)
Village Harmony, the remarkable teen world music ensemble, presents its annual summer concert program.

7:00pm

Friday, July 14, 7:00pm: Norwich, VT – Congregational Church, 15 Church St
The group is led by Polina Shepherd from the UK, Sinead O’Mahoney, and Carl Linich. The 24 brilliant teen singers come from nine states plus Canada and France.
Admission is by donation at the door.
For further information visit www.villageharmony.org or email villageharmony@gmail.com.
Village Harmony, a non-profit umbrella organization based in Vermont, promotes the study and performance of ethnic singing traditions from around the world. For more than thirty years they have organized teen ensembles each summer in New England and ensembles for mixed-age and adult singers in numerous foreign countries. Each Village Harmony ensemble develops its own unique sound with a different team of leaders. All share common traits: a powerful, natural, unrestrained vocal sound; a remarkable variety of vocal styles and timbres appropriate to the ethnic and traditional music; and a visible, vibrant community among the singers and audience as they share in a joyful celebration of music.
Polina Shepherd was born in Siberia and grew up in a home where songs were regularly sung at a family table. She is now and internationally-renowned singer with a sound deeply rooted in eastern European Jewish and Russian folk. Her choir work is united by the umbrella of The Polina Shepherd Vocal Experience and covers many aspects of vocal music from highly arranged and conducted pieces to on-spot choral improvisations.
VH alumna Sinead O’Mahoney has been singing and traveling with Village Harmony for 15 years. She has been praised for her sure command of rhythm and efficient teaching style, and will lead American shape-note songs as well as songs from the Balkans and South Africa.
Carl Linich has been studying, singing, and teaching traditional polyphonic folk and liturgical music from Caucasus Georgia since 1990, and has been sharing it with Village Harmony for over two decades. He has directed the Supruli Choir in New York City, the Bard College Georgian Choir, and his own family trio with his two sons.

Related Images:

Village Harmony Teen World Music Ensemble – South Hero, VT
2023-07-15 16:00 - 18:00 (America/Halifax)
Village Harmony, the remarkable teen world music ensemble, presents its annual summer concert program.

South Hero, VT – Congregational Church, 24 South S

The group is led by Polina Shepherd from the UK, Sinead O’Mahoney, and Carl Linich. The 24 brilliant teen singers come from nine states plus Canada and France.
Admission is by donation at the door.
For further information visit www.villageharmony.org or email villageharmony@gmail.com.
Village Harmony, a non-profit umbrella organization based in Vermont, promotes the study and performance of ethnic singing traditions from around the world. For more than thirty years they have organized teen ensembles each summer in New England and ensembles for mixed-age and adult singers in numerous foreign countries. Each Village Harmony ensemble develops its own unique sound with a different team of leaders. All share common traits: a powerful, natural, unrestrained vocal sound; a remarkable variety of vocal styles and timbres appropriate to the ethnic and traditional music; and a visible, vibrant community among the singers and audience as they share in a joyful celebration of music.
Polina Shepherd was born in Siberia and grew up in a home where songs were regularly sung at a family table. She is now and internationally-renowned singer with a sound deeply rooted in eastern European Jewish and Russian folk. Her choir work is united by the umbrella of The Polina Shepherd Vocal Experience and covers many aspects of vocal music from highly arranged and conducted pieces to on-spot choral improvisations.
VH alumna Sinead O’Mahoney has been singing and traveling with Village Harmony for 15 years. She has been praised for her sure command of rhythm and efficient teaching style, and will lead American shape-note songs as well as songs from the Balkans and South Africa.
Carl Linich has been studying, singing, and teaching traditional polyphonic folk and liturgical music from Caucasus Georgia since 1990, and has been sharing it with Village Harmony for over two decades. He has directed the Supruli Choir in New York City, the Bard College Georgian Choir, and his own family trio with his two sons.
Related Images:

Village Harmony Teen World Music Ensemble - Montpelier, VT
2023-07-16 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Halifax)
Village Harmony, the remarkable teen world music ensemble, presents its annual summer concert program.

Sunday, July 16, 3:00pm: Montpelier, VT – Unitarian Church, 130 Main St
The group is led by Polina Shepherd from the UK, Sinead O’Mahoney, and Carl Linich. The 24 brilliant teen singers come from nine states plus Canada and France.
Admission is by donation at the door.
For further information visit www.villageharmony.org or email villageharmony@gmail.com.
Village Harmony, a non-profit umbrella organization based in Vermont, promotes the study and performance of ethnic singing traditions from around the world. For more than thirty years they have organized teen ensembles each summer in New England and ensembles for mixed-age and adult singers in numerous foreign countries. Each Village Harmony ensemble develops its own unique sound with a different team of leaders. All share common traits: a powerful, natural, unrestrained vocal sound; a remarkable variety of vocal styles and timbres appropriate to the ethnic and traditional music; and a visible, vibrant community among the singers and audience as they share in a joyful celebration of music.
Polina Shepherd was born in Siberia and grew up in a home where songs were regularly sung at a family table. She is now and internationally-renowned singer with a sound deeply rooted in eastern European Jewish and Russian folk. Her choir work is united by the umbrella of The Polina Shepherd Vocal Experience and covers many aspects of vocal music from highly arranged and conducted pieces to on-spot choral improvisations.
VH alumna Sinead O’Mahoney has been singing and traveling with Village Harmony for 15 years. She has been praised for her sure command of rhythm and efficient teaching style, and will lead American shape-note songs as well as songs from the Balkans and South Africa.
Carl Linich has been studying, singing, and teaching traditional polyphonic folk and liturgical music from Caucasus Georgia since 1990, and has been sharing it with Village Harmony for over two decades. He has directed the Supruli Choir in New York City, the Bard College Georgian Choir, and his own family trio with his two sons.

Related Images:

Caravan Orchestra and Choir - Haifa
2023-07-23 - 2023-07-30
23 July – 16 August
Haifa, Israel and several cities in Germany
Caravan Orchestra and Choir project
Caravan Orchestra and Choir is an exchange project between Yiddish Summer Weimar and the Department of Music of אוניברסיטת חיפה – University of Haifa, in cooperation with the International Office University of Music Franz Liszt Weimar. It explores connections between Ashkenazic Jewish (Yiddish) and Arab music and study forms, context and performance philosophy with similar approach to improvisation, ornamentation, modality… The project will rehearse and perform in Haifa, Israel, in the first week and then move to Germany for rehearsals and concerts.
Young musicians from Israel and Germany apply for a 3 week residency in Haifa and Weimar, with an intensive rehearsal period and concerts in both countries, as well as fun social activities, workshops and excursions.

Together with the artistic directors, participants explore both East European Jewish (Yiddish), East Mediterranean and Middle Eastern music traditions. It is the synthesis of those cultures that makes the sound of the Caravan Orchestra so unique.
Join us this year!
Full information here: https://caravanorchestra.eu/

Related Images:

Caravan Orchestra and Choir in Germany
2023-07-30 - 2023-08-08
23 July – 12 August
Haifa, Israel and several cities in Germany
Caravan Orchestra and Choir project
Caravan Orchestra and Choir is an exchange project between Yiddish Summer Weimar and the Department of Music of אוניברסיטת חיפה – University of Haifa, in cooperation with the International Office University of Music Franz Liszt Weimar. It explores connections between Ashkenazic Jewish (Yiddish) and Arab music and study forms, context and performance philosophy with similar approach to improvisation, ornamentation, modality… The project will rehearse and perform in Haifa, Israel, in the first week and then move to Germany for rehearsals and concerts.
Young musicians from Israel and Germany apply for a 3 week residency in Haifa and Weimar, with an intensive rehearsal period and concerts in both countries, as well as fun social activities, workshops and excursions.

Together with the artistic directors, participants explore both East European Jewish (Yiddish), East Mediterranean and Middle Eastern music traditions. It is the synthesis of those cultures that makes the sound of the Caravan Orchestra so unique.

Full information here: https://caravanorchestra.eu

Concerts in Germany:

Wednesday, August 9th, 2023 Germany, Erfurt, Thuringian State Parliament, evening, time to be announced
Thursday, August 10th, Germany, Eisenach, Wandelhalle, time to be announced
Friday. August 11th, Leipzig, Marktplatz, Leipziger Markt Musik, 5:00 PM, free admission
Saturday, August 12th, Germany, Weimar, Herderplatz, double bill with KaraYam, evening, time to be announced

This year’s Caravan Orchestra and Choir Music Directors:

Polina Shepherd – Russia/UK
Çiğdem Aslan – Turkey/UK
Asineth Fotini Kokkala – Greece/Turkey
Christian Dawid – Germany

Related Images:

Caravan Orchestra & Choir with International Leaders concert
2023-07-30 18:00 - 19:00 UTC | Department of Music of the University of Haifa, Israel
Caravan Orchestra & Choir with International Leaders concert in Haifa. Venue: Department of Music, School of Arts, University of Haifa
6 PM. Free admission.
This concert will present some of this year’s Caravan Orchestra and Choir repertoire as well as solo performances by the music directors. Part of Yiddish Summer Weimar

Polina Shepherd – Russia/UK
Çiğdem Aslan – Turkey/UK
Asineth Fotini Kokkala – Greece/Turkey
Christian Dawid – Germany

Caravan Orchestra and Choir is an exchange project between Yiddish Summer Weimar and the Department of Music of אוניברסיטת חיפה – University of Haifa, in cooperation with the International Office University of Music Franz Liszt Weimar. It explores connections between Ashkenazic Jewish (Yiddish) and Arab music and study forms, context and performance philosophy with similar approach to improvisation, ornamentation, modality… The project will rehearse and perform in Haifa, Israel, in the first week and then move to Germany for rehearsals and concerts.
Young musicians from Israel and Germany apply for a 3 week residency in Haifa and Weimar, with an intensive rehearsal period and concerts in both countries, as well as fun social activities, workshops and excursions.
Together with the artistic directors, participants explore both East European Jewish (Yiddish), East Mediterranean and Middle Eastern music traditions. It is the synthesis of those cultures that makes the sound of the Caravan Orchestra so unique.

Full information about the project here: https://caravanorchestra.eu

Related Images:

Caravan Orchestra & Choir concert in Erfurt, Germany
2023-08-09 20:00 - 22:00 UTC
Concerts in Germany:

Wednesday, August 9th, 2023 Germany, Erfurt, Thuringian State Parliament, evening, time to be announced
Thursday, August 10th, Germany, Eisenach, Wandelhalle, time to be announced
Friday. August 11th, Leipzig, Marktplatz, Leipziger Markt Musik, 5:00 PM, free admission
Saturday, August 12th, Germany, Weimar, Herderplatz, double bill with KaraYam, evening, time to be announced

Caravan Orchestra and Choir is an exchange project between Yiddish Summer Weimar and the Department of Music of אוניברסיטת חיפה – University of Haifa, in cooperation with the International Office University of Music Franz Liszt Weimar. It explores connections between Ashkenazic Jewish (Yiddish) and Arab music and study forms, context and performance philosophy with similar approach to improvisation, ornamentation, modality… The project will rehearse and perform in Haifa, Israel, in the first week and then move to Germany for rehearsals and concerts.
Young musicians from Israel and Germany apply for a 3 week residency in Haifa and Weimar, with an intensive rehearsal period and concerts in both countries, as well as fun social activities, workshops and excursions.

Together with the artistic directors, participants explore both East European Jewish (Yiddish), East Mediterranean and Middle Eastern music traditions. It is the synthesis of those cultures that makes the sound of the Caravan Orchestra so unique.

Full information here: https://caravanorchestra.eu

This year’s Caravan Orchestra and Choir Music Directors:

Polina Shepherd – Russia/UK
Çiğdem Aslan – Turkey/UK
Asineth Fotini Kokkala – Greece/Turkey
Christian Dawid – Germany

Related Images:

Caravan Orchestra & Choir concert in Eisenach, Germany
2023-08-10 20:00 - 22:00 UTC
Wednesday, August 9th, 2023 Germany, Erfurt, Thuringian State Parliament, evening, time to be announced
Thursday, August 10th, Germany, Eisenach, Wandelhalle, time to be announced
Friday. August 11th, Leipzig, Marktplatz, Leipziger Markt Musik, 5:00 PM, free admission
Saturday, August 12th, Germany, Weimar, Herderplatz, double bill with KaraYam, evening, time to be announced

Caravan Orchestra and Choir is an exchange project between Yiddish Summer Weimar and the Department of Music of אוניברסיטת חיפה – University of Haifa, in cooperation with the International Office University of Music Franz Liszt Weimar. It explores connections between Ashkenazic Jewish (Yiddish) and Arab music and study forms, context and performance philosophy with similar approach to improvisation, ornamentation, modality… The project will rehearse and perform in Haifa, Israel, in the first week and then move to Germany for rehearsals and concerts.
Young musicians from Israel and Germany apply for a 3 week residency in Haifa and Weimar, with an intensive rehearsal period and concerts in both countries, as well as fun social activities, workshops and excursions.

Together with the artistic directors, participants explore both East European Jewish (Yiddish), East Mediterranean and Middle Eastern music traditions. It is the synthesis of those cultures that makes the sound of the Caravan Orchestra so unique.

Full information here: https://caravanorchestra.eu

This year’s Caravan Orchestra and Choir Music Directors:

Polina Shepherd – Russia/UK
Çiğdem Aslan – Turkey/UK
Asineth Fotini Kokkala – Greece/Turkey
Christian Dawid – Germany

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Caravan Orchestra & Choir concert in Leipzig, Germany
2023-08-11 20:00 - 22:00 UTC

Caravan Orchestra & Choir concert in Weimar, Germany
2023-08-12 20:00 - 22:00 UTC

KlezKanada - Quebec.
2023-08-23 - 2023-08-29
KlezKanada Website here

This year, we’ll be offering a focus on filmmaking! Our program will include filmmaking workshops, film scoring workshops, a concert-screening from Merlin and Polina Shepherd’s Sound and Light Cinematic Duo, and more.

As part of our commitment to keeping our community safe, our 2023 in-person Summer Retreat will again include COVID-19 safety protocols.

We are committed to continuing our digital programming. Over the last three years, we have experienced the power of digital spaces to offer world-class and affordable educational programs, increase accessibility, and bring people together across distances. Look for announcements about our 2023 digital programs coming soon!

Full programme here

More here.

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NEW CHOIR opening in London - Slavic Voices
2023-09-14 19:00 - 21:00 UTC
NEW CHOIR! Opening in September in London and Brighton & Hove

Slavic Voices is open to singers of all backgrounds.
It presents music of all styles from the Slavic world: Orthodox chants, beautiful classics by Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky and others, refined XVIII-XIX-centuries Art song and gritty folklore from the far corners of Siberia to the banks of the Black Sea. The repertoire is sung mainly in Russian but also in Ukrainian, Belorussian, occasional Bulgarian, Polish, Czech, and adding a guest visit by a song in Yiddish or Georgian. No knowledge of the languages is required.

Join us on the journey to explore and share this culturally unique and musically diverse repertoire with the wide world. We will perform at festivals and choral events, present our own concerts and collaborations with choirs and instrumentalists several times a year.
Led by Polina Skovoroda-Shepherd, granddaughter of a Cossack, an internationally acclaimed performer, educator and cultural activist.

BRIGHTON & HOVE rehearsal term: 10 weekly sessions from 19 September till 21 November – Tuesdays, 6-8pm in central Brighton.
Fees: Taster session for people who haven’t sung in Polina’s choirs is free. Full term fee including online service charge £75 here.
Cash and cheque payments of £70 for the term are accepted as well as online payments in some cases. Please get in touch to book your space.
More information and joining here.
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NEW CHOIR opening in Brighton - Slavic Voices
2023-09-19 18:00 - 20:00 UTC | Brighton Unitarian Church

Sing with Me - 139 ONLINE
2023-09-20 18:00 - 19:00 UTC | Online
Sing with Me had 138 online singing sessions during the pandemic. Some of our international group (USA, UK, Germany, Brazil, The United Arab Emirates, France, Iceland…) met in person since but this is our virtual reunion. It is open to anyone who would like to learn a Yiddish and a Russian song in a friendly session.
See more about SWM here. 6-7pm UK time.
Sing with Me Yiddish Song Sessions Online open to everyone.

New songs in every session.
Learn about cultural context and style.
No knowledge of Yiddish or other languages is needed.
Song sheets are shown on the screen during sessions.
Session videos are posted on Youtube.
Payments are appreciated but you can also join free of charge.
A Zoom link for each session, printable song sheet with music, lyrics, translation and transliteration appear on this page minimum two hours before the session.
Here are some basics for Yiddish transliteration

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Lewes (UK) Wonder Sessions: Polina Shepherd / Pam and De Femmes
2023-10-07 19:30 - 22:00 UTC | Fitzroy House, 10 High Street, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 2AD, United Kingdom
Songs from around the Wondersphere by Lewes Live Literature Productions

Tickets: £10.00 advance / £12.00 door – BOOK HERE
LLL began as a promoter of art and literature events, running spring and autumn seasons and one-off events, and steadily acquiring a reputation for inventive, eclectic programming.
An evening of music from around the world. Internationally renowned singer & cultural activist Polina Shepherd (pictured) was originally from Siberia and now lives in Brighton. Her evocative singing, based on traditional forms, cuts a sound deeply rooted in east European Jewish and Slavic folk songs. Pam and De Femmes are an extraordinary band well-known in Lewes for their unique and eclectic brand of multilingual musical exuberance, performing songs from a range of musical traditions sung in over 30 languages.

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Which Yiddish Song are You? 1 - ONLINE course for the Workers Circle
2023-10-18 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Online
Which Yiddish Song are You?

Let’s bring more songs closer to our hearts. Explore songs that express with intense emotions: love, despair, gratitude, longing, power… Apart from new songs brought by the teacher, this mini-course invite you to bring and share your favourites with the group, discuss their musical styles, learn about their authors and context in which they were composed and tell about your connections with them. Open to all.

Book HERE
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The Big and The Beautiful collaborative show in Brighton, UK
2023-10-20 19:00 - 23:30 UTC | The Old MArket, 11A Upper Market St, Brighton and Hove, BN3 1AS, United Kingdom
KermesZ à l’Est / The Buffo’s Wake Orchestra / Super Dupes / Swing Ninjas / Brassic Parp / Ceilidh Boom

Polina and Merlin Shepherd and Slavic Voices choir will be part of one of the acts in this big show:

THE BUFFO’S WAKE ORCHESTRA
The Buffo’s Wake Orchestra return to the Old Market for their yearly foray into the world of self-indulgent extravagance. Their 6-piece Klezmer-punk Carnival Chaos will be supplemented with the very best musicians that Brighton and London have to offer – transforming into a 22-piece cacophonous chamber orchestra, they will take to the stage, forcing you to waltz, tango, mosh and kolo your way through a vast array of influences from Eastern European, Balkan and Russian folk, to punk rock and cabaret, whilst they tell their tall tales of debauchery and deformity. Musical eccentrics, drawing from diverse backgrounds ranging from Drum n’ Bass DJs to classically trained string players, punks to funk players and poets to showmen, they’re guaranteed to have a few surprises up their collective sleeves. In their time together, they have toured all over the world, finding an inspired, confused, sweaty, and often very drunk reception everywhere they go. Supplemented with a huge horn section, sublime strings, cimbalom, bouzouki, percussion and a chamber choir, this will be an absolutely huge show; their biggest stage show to date. Klezmer Carnival Punks – with influences from Abba to Zappa, Buffo’s Wake are guaranteed to leave you dancing like a man possessed!

READ more about the whole show
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Which Yiddish Song are You? 2 - ONLINE course for the Workers Circle
2023-10-25 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Online
Which Yiddish Song are You?

Let’s bring more songs closer to our hearts. Explore songs that express with intense emotions: love, despair, gratitude, longing, power… Apart from new songs brought by the teacher, this mini-course invite you to bring and share your favourites with the group, discuss their musical styles, learn about their authors and context in which they were composed and tell about your connections with them. Open to all.
Book here.
Related Images:

Which Yiddish Song are You? 3 - ONLINE course for the Workers Circle
2023-11-01 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Online

Which Yiddish Song are You? 4 - ONLINE course for the Workers Circle
2023-11-08 13:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Online
Which Yiddish Song are You?

Let’s bring more songs closer to our hearts. Explore songs that express with intense emotions: love, despair, gratitude, longing, power… Apart from new songs brought by the teacher, this mini-course invite you to bring and share your favourites with the group, discuss their musical styles, learn about their authors and context in which they were composed and tell about your connections with them. Open to all.
More information and registration will be open in September here.
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