Slavyanka Chorus 2025 Concert Season
Thank you to all who joined the Slavyanka Chorus in celebrating 45 years of inspiring performances with our special anniversary concerts! We together experienced the rich and soulful choral traditions of Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, and beyond in a powerful program of music that honors the vibrant musical heritage of Slavic cultures.
Some responses from our guests:
Under the artistic direction of Irina Shachneva since 2012, Slavyanka Chorus has captivated audiences for decades with passionate and moving interpretations of music both secular and sacred. This milestone anniversary event will be an unforgettable evening of music that bridges cultures and connects hearts. Our program featured intricate harmonies, evocative melodies, and stirring rhythms that reflect the diverse cultural influences of Eastern Europe. Audiences were transported through time and tradition, experiencing both well-loved classics and lesser-known gems from Slavic musical history.
This concert series was more than just a performance — it was a heartfelt tribute to the power of music to unite people across borders and generations. Your attendance and continuing support of Slavyanka Chorus supports our mission of cultural exchange and understanding. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Slavyanka's music, this celebration was an opportunity to connect with the spirit and passion that have defined our choir since 1979. Let's continue to celebrate многая лета (mnogaya leta; many years) of musical excellence together! Stay tuned for news of our future concerts and possible tours in Eastern Europe and the United States.
Songs of the soul
Dear Slavyanka Singers,
A week has already fled by since we offered our Songs of the Soul concert. I have to admit, I left the concert, fell into bed, and threw myself into the next endeavor—but tonight I realize I don’t want to let another minute pass without telling you how it was to share this extraordinary program with you.
In all my years of singing, I’ve never encountered a repertoire quite like this: this rare blend of Russian folk melodies, pilgrimage songs, ancient chant, and the soul-deep music of village life.
Thank you to all of you that did the preparation—especially Irina for the hundreds of hours of research, curation, translation, production, and rehearsal. And week after week, Slavyanka showed up to absorb this unfamiliar music and transform it—through breath, body, voice, and spirit—into something living and known.
It is a rare gift to perform something new together. Hard, yes—and amazing. I found myself thinking today how this music resembles walking: that steady, humble trudge we all do, from birth to death, childhood to age, monastery to monastery, concert to concert.
I loved the character of the music—its earthiness, its sacredness—what I began to think of as holy walking songs. I was especially moved by the wonderful work of our younger singers, the brave stepping-up of adult members, the small ensemble moments, and the unforgettable voice of Juliana Svetlitchnaia.
And as always, I am grateful to sing under the masterful hands of Artistic Director, Irina Shachneya.
Bravi tutti! Let’s rest up, stay safe and healthy, and come together again next fall to do what we do best: bring something true, rare, and radiant into the world through choral music.
Lauren Carley