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Anchiskhati Choir
The Anchiskhati Choir is a distinguished ensemble based at the Anchiskhati Church in Tbilisi, Georgia, renowned for its dedication to preserving and reviving Georgian polyphonic choral music. The choir consists of nine members who have played a pivotal role in the resurgence of medieval church music in Georgia, especially during the late 20th century as the Soviet Union was dissolving. This revival was significant because, for nearly three generations under Communist rule, church music was banned.

Founded in 1987 by a group of Conservatoire students, including Malkhaz Erkvanidze and Davit Zatiashvili, the choir began with a focus on Georgian folk songs and later expanded to include traditional polyphonic church hymns. Their repertoire is drawn from archival recordings and regional variations of Georgian music, and they have a strong commitment to authenticity. The choir's efforts were supported by the Georgian Orthodox Church, and they were appointed as the official choir of the Anchiskhati Church, the oldest surviving church in Tbilisi, dating from the sixth century.

The Anchiskhati Choir has recorded several albums, including Easter hymns in 1991 and Christmas songs in 1992. They have performed internationally, such as at a New Year's Day Mass in Athens in 1994, and have contributed significantly to the appreciation and understanding of Georgian church music worldwide. Despite their achievements, their music remains relatively unknown in the West. The choir's work has been crucial in the cultural renaissance of Georgian traditional music, inspiring new followers and members across Georgia.

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