Appearing at Kings Place as part of Songlines Encounters 2023, Ialoni (meaning ‘Dawn’ in Western Georgian dialect) is one of the leading women’s vocal ensembles from the Republic of Georgia, in the Caucasus mountains.

Georgian polyphony is a rich and ancient, UNESCO-listed tradition, generally sung in three-part harmonies. 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, lullabies, and modern, composed songs all continue this music into the present day.

Ialoni has been led since its formation in 2009 by musicologist Nino Naneishvili. They have now recorded five albums, and taught and performed internationally.

Winners of Best Female Folk Ensemble at the National Folklore Festival of Georgia 2015-2016, in the following year Ialoni were awarded the Grand Prix in Georgian Traditional Chant, and the first place and Gold Medal in Georgian Folk Song at the Tbilisi Choral Music Competition.

With their deep knowledge of the music and its cultural context, and a charming and engaging delivery, Ialoni’s singing is sure to delight. If you haven’t heard this stunning harmony tradition before, you couldn’t wish for a better introduction.

The performance will last approximately 90 minutes.