Batumi will host African American Polyphony Week from August 29 to September 9, as part of the project "Polyphony: Different Roots, Common Values." This project is organized by the NGO Folk Georgia with the financial support of a small grant program from the US Ambassador. The event is also supported by Rooms Hotels.

The project aims to introduce African American polyphonic music to Georgian listeners and facilitate an exchange of experiences between African American and Georgian traditional polyphonic cultures. Dr. Kathy Bullock, professor of Berea College (Kentucky, USA) and an expert on African American music, will lead the week. She will be assisted by Tamar Buadze, a Georgian musician with extensive experience in international collaboration, who also serves as the head and conductor of the ensemble ‘Tutarchela’.

The project consists of two stages:

1. Two online lectures
2. Practical workshops and concerts

Participants in the workshops will perform samples of African American music in front of a wide audience.

Participation is free and does not require any special musical education or performance techniques. Georgian translation will be provided as needed.

To participate, follow the link to register: Registration Link Registration deadlines:

• Online lectures: June 8, 2024
• Workshops: August 15, 2024

Schedule:

• Online lectures:
  • June 10, 19:00-20:30
  • June 17, 19:00-20:30
• Workshops:
  • August 29 – September 7
• Final concert:
  • September 9