Anzor Erkomaishvili
Anzor Erkomaishvili (10 August 1940 – 31 March 2021) was a renowned Georgian singer, composer, and folk music researcher, celebrated for his significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Georgian folk music. Born in Batumi, Georgia, into a family with a rich musical heritage, his grandfather Artem Erkomaishvili was a notable folk singer who greatly influenced him.
Erkomaishvili began his musical education early, achieving a first-degree diploma at the State Musical Olympiad in Tbilisi at the age of seven. He graduated from the Tbilisi State Conservatoire in 1969, where he studied choir conducting. During his student years, he was instrumental in creating the vocal ensemble "Gordela" in 1961. In 1968, he founded the Rustavi Choir, which became a leading ensemble in Georgian folk music, touring internationally and recording extensively.
Throughout his career, Erkomaishvili was dedicated to collecting, transcribing, and preserving Georgian folk songs. He discovered and restored numerous historical recordings, including 127 Georgian folk songs in London and matrices of V. Sarajishvili's recordings. His efforts led to the release of several records and the publication of books on Georgian folk music, such as "Grandfather" and "On the Footsteps of Old Songs."
Erkomaishvili's work earned him numerous accolades, including the titles of Meritorious Artist of Georgia and People’s Artist of Georgia, as well as prestigious awards like the Shota Rustaveli State Prize and the Albert Schweitzer Prize. He was also honored with the Order of Honor and the Presidential Order of Excellence.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Erkomaishvili served briefly in the Parliament of Georgia and was a prominent TV personality, hosting the show "100 Georgian Folk Songs." He passed away due to COVID-19-related complications and was buried at the Mtatsminda Pantheon in Tbilisi. His legacy continues to influence and inspire the preservation of Georgian cultural heritage.