ANTHONY JOHNSTON
Anthony is a highly experienced workshop and choir leader with a patient teaching style. He has studied with many different Georgian song masters and is a regular visitor to the country. Anthony will spend time on how to sing the songs more authentically, and how to embody the true spirit of each song.

BORJGHALI CHOIR
Borjghali, Bristol Georgian choir, specialises in singing and performing songs from the Republic of Georgia. Founded in 2004 by Anthony, the choir has visited Georgia on a number of occasions, to perform and to study this unique culture.

Among some of its more prestigious engagements, the choir has performed on Georgian national television, and has sung at the Houses of Parliament in the UK.

GEORGIAN POLYPHONY
The Republic of Georgia, in the Caucasus mountains, boasts a rich and ancient UNESCO listed tradition of complex polyphony. Like Georgia itself, the music sits at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, yet has its own, truly unique character. It blends challenging, dissonant and microtonal chords with sweet and lyrical close harmonies. Ancient pagan, shamanic ritual songs with soaring liturgical chants. Powerful work songs, rousing wedding songs, and modern, composed songs all continue this music into the present day.

WORKSHOP 2.30–5.30pm
An introduction to the power and magic of Georgian song. Led by Anthony Johnston, the workshop is open to all, and each song will be taught by ear, as is the tradition in Georgia. Whether you are a seasoned singer, or whether you are new to this tradition, you are guaranteed a warm welcome and an enjoyable introduction to this beautiful music.

Members of Borjghali will be present to lend a hand in supporting participants in learning the songs.

Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided free of charge.

PERFORMANCE 6–6.30pm
Before we sit down for the Supra feast, Borjghali will perform a set of ancient and sacred songs in the beautiful acoustic of the church, to take you to another world.

SUPRA 7–10pm
In the evening you are invited to join us for a supra, or ritual Georgian feast.

Georgia has a distinctive and sophisticated feasting culture that celebrates the relationship between the host and honoured guests. Led by a toastmaster, or 'tamada', the supra tradition combines the sharing of delicious food with heartfelt toasts and song. So join us for an unforgettable, authentic and moving experience of Georgian culture.

Georgian wine can be added to your order when buying tickets, or you are welcome to bring your own alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks.

ACCESSIBILITY
It is important to us that this event be accessible to all who wish to participate. If you have any specific accessibility needs, please let us know when booking, and we will contact you to discuss your requirements.

UNDER 18S
This is a family friendly event, and all are welcome to attend. However, younger children will need to be in the care and supervision of a responsible adult at all times.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
At a supra, food is served to table in small plates and bowls, from which guests select whatever food they wish. The majority of the dishes will be vegetarian, and many will also be vegan and/or gluten free. Please be aware that walnuts feature prominently in Georgian cuisine, and we cannot guarantee that any dish will be free of all traces of nuts. If you have any severe food allergy or other special dietary requirement, please contact us beforehand to discuss.

COVID POLICY
Please do not attend the event if you are suffering from any potentially infectious respiratory illness, including Covid. In the event that you are unable to attend for this reason, a full refund will be given.

If you have reason to believe that you may have been exposed to Covid in the week before the event, please take a lateral flow test. In the event of a positive test result, a full refund will be given.

Workshop 2.30–5.30pm
Performance 6–6.30pm
Supra 7–10pm

Workshop £35/25
Supra £30/20
Combined £55/40

Performance £5 suggested donation to support Ukrainian refugees in Sighnaghi, Georgia. 100% of your donation will be paid directly to those providing food, housing and other necessities to families fleeing the war.

Note: We believe that the ticket prices shown are good value for the experience that you will have, and the cost of providing the workshop and supra. However, we also recognise that many people are experiencing financial strain. The concessionary rates shown are offered to students, those on low incomes, or in receipt of disability or income related benefits.

Children up to the age of 10 may attend free – but please book them a free ticket to reserve a place.

If you are keen to attend but cost is an issue for you, we wouldn't want anyone to be excluded on that basis. Please contact us directly, and we can make an arrangement that works for you.

Entry requirements: no age restrictions — Read more — Read less