SOAS, University of London (The School of Oriental and African Studies)

Russian Folk Songs from the Steppes

Course Dates: Sat 22 June, 11am-5pm
Course Fee: £65 (concs £45) -> book online

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.

Polina Skovoroda grew up in a home where songs were frequently sung at table after eating borsht and drinking homemade wine. Her grandfather played bayan (button accordion) and her mother, a professional singer would often sing for hours while Polina listened with the hungry ears of a child, learning deeply rooted traditions throughout her childhood years. Now she is a highly experienced workshop leader and performer. Since moving to the UK, she has toured and taught internationally including Iceland, Brazil, Switzerland, Austria, France, Ukraine and many other countries. In the UK, she has taught for Glyndebourne Education and the Natural Voice Practitioners Network and is now leading the Brighton & Hove Russian Choir and the East European choir at UCL. [artist website]