Album Notes

John Henken of the Los Angeles Times wrote: "...the women of Zhena sing like angels in terms of vocal production, blend, pitch and pointed inflection. But these are very human angels, experienced in loss and sorrow as well as in joy. A small a cappella ensemble, Zhena Folk Chorus travels through Slavic village music from Eastern Europe with pre-Christian songs through Christian liturgy, carols, and a Muslim chant, with a generous selection of secular folk songs. All are sung with conviction and perfect musical poise."

Corey Levitan of the Daily Breeze wrote: "The ladies of Zhena rock. Their rich harmonies blend beautifully."

The mission of Zhena Folk Chorus is to perpetuate the rich village tradition of Eastern European choral music and culture, to heighten awareness of this beautiful and vigorous heritage, and to signify the primary role of women in preserving this important genre of world music. Zhena (zena) is the word for woman or wife in Slavic languages. Nine women sing the folk songs of Croatia, Bulgaria, Bosnia, Russia, Macedonia, Georgia, Ukraine and Turkey.

The chorus was part of Avaz International Dance Theatre from the 1980s, becoming independent in 1993. Performances include the Dalai Lama's World Festival of Sacred Music in 1998 and 2002, the Tamburica Extravaganza in Los Angeles, The Getty Center, Cal State Universities, numerous festivals and events throughout greater Los Angeles, and a very special performance for Simeon IV, King-in-Exile of Bulgaria.