What makes Slavic singing so unique?

Slavic music is distinguished not only by its special sound texture, shaped by dissonant harmonies, irregular rhythms, and polyphonic compositions in which several melodies are sung simultaneously by individual voices. What sets Slavic musical culture apart from other European traditions is above all its character as a social practice, marked by a high degree of musicality, vivid imagery, and deep emotional impact as noted by the Czech musicologist Jiří Vysloužil (1924-2015).

The Choir of Slavic Studies at the University of Graz seeks to explore this cultural phenomenon. To grasp Slavic cultures not only on a rational level, we study hymns as well as folk, art, and popular songs from Eastern, Central, and Southeastern Europe. The choir is conducted by Nika Shydlovska, a Master’s student at ITAT and STUMAF in the Department of Slavic Literature and Cultural Studies. She received her training as a choir conductor in Ukraine, before coming to Austria to study translation.

The choir is open to everyone who’s interested – breath artists and vocal acrobats included! You don’t need language skills or the ability to read music. Aspiring Slavists and singers are especially welcome.

Rehearsals: Wednesdays, 7:00–8:30 pm
Location: Merangasse 70 (WALL), ground floor, multipurpose room
Information & registration: Nika (en/de/ru/uk)