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Two reviews of Ukrainian holiday music in 2009? Perhaps hard to believe, but true. Having just completed my review of Rejoice (here), I now explore the Vesnivka Choir's earlier release Ukrainian Christmas Carols. Both offerings are strong, but I slightly prefer this original holiday album.

Unlike Rejoice, the one choir featured here is Vesnivka (the men are gone; only women's voices here). A smaller chamber orchestra appears on some cuts, providing excellent support. Best of all, I love the unadorned voice, and Ukrainian Christmas Carols offers many a cappella renditions that are light, bright, and right on the mark.

All of the music is sung in Ukrainian, which is not my first, second, or even third language. The melodies are wholly unfamiliar. I can completely comprehend, however, the mechanics of wonderful music, and the Vesnivka Choir delivers on every level.

The most interesting carol--and the longest track at nearly 6 minutes--is probably the intensely melancholy Chernobyl Carol. No lyrics are given, but you can let your imagination fill in the blanks. The other tracks are largely upbeat and joyous; I especially enjoyed the rounds in Heaven and Earth Rejoice! and the gorgeous, layered harmonies in Behold a Miracle.

Music is a remarkable vehicle for world discovery, even if you can't afford the resources to book a global tour. The Vesnivka Choir's Ukrainian Christmas Carols provides a fascinating trip. Pack your bags; this Ukrainian junket is worth the time!

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2009)

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From the liner notes:

Choral and orchestral arrangements: Viktor Stepurko

Vesnivka Choir

The award-winning Vesnivka Choir was established in 1965 by founding conductor/director Halyna Kvitka Kondracki and is renowned for its musical excellence, high professional standards and quality of repertoire.

Ukrainian Christmas carols--Kolyadky--(1-11) are sung from Christmas Eve--January 6 (according to the Julian Calendar) to Epiphany on January 19. These songs can be traced to pagan times. With the introduction of Christianity in Ukraine in 988, pagan songs were replaced by Christian carols and hymns. Shchedrivky--New Year songs--(12-17) also have pagan roots and herald the New Year which starts January 14. These delightful folk songs with their charming rhythmic medloides, express wishes for health, wealth and happiness.

From the Website:

Vesnivka Choir exists to promote Ukrainian liturgical and choral tradition and to provide an opportunity for individuals to enjoy a challenging and rewarding musical experience through a community-based choir. Vesnivka members demonstrate a professional attitude and commitment to success to benefit the community.

Vesnivka, founded in 1965 by Halyna Kvitka Kondracki, is a women's choir. Kondracki has been the sole conductor since its inception. In May 1977, Vesnivka Choir was incorporated and since March 1994, it has been a registered charity (Registration number #13819-8171-RT0001).
Membership

There are currently 40 registered members in Vesnivka Choir. Members must adhere to the established policies regarding rehearsals, performances, registration fees, choral development, costume and note maintenance as well as fundraising activities.

Vesnivka Choir is located in Toronto, Canada. Its official address is 78 Brule Gardens, Toronto, Ontario, M6S 4J2 Canada. Weekly rehearsals take place at 4 Bellwoods Avenue in Toronto. The Choir primarily serves the Ukrainian-Canadian community of Toronto and its surrounding area, as well as various communities throughout Ontario and Canada.

Vesnivka Choir

Ukrainian Christmas Carols

Artist link

Track List