mila Vocal Ensemble: A Party of Eastern European Traditions
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Get ready for a unique musical journey as the Mila Vocal Ensemble,a renowned Minneapolis-based women’s choir,makes its Hutchinson debut. This special performance, taking place at historic St. John’s Episcopal Church on january 5th at 2 p.m., promises a captivating experience for all.
Celebrating Traditions Through Song
the Mila Vocal Ensemble has been enchanting audiences for the past two decades with their heartfelt renditions of eastern European folk songs. “I’m excited to bring Mila here with their winter performance because the music will be utterly new to manny of our ears,” says Rev. Kerri Meyer, the driving force behind bringing the ensemble to Hutchinson. “Jan. 5 is Twelfth Night, the last day of Christmas, and music is a traditional way to celebrate the end of this holiday season.”
Audience members can expect to be transported to various countries like Croatia, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Poland, Russia, and the Republic of Georgia through a carefully curated setlist featuring a blend of sacred and secular music. The ensemble’s diverse repertoire evokes a range of emotions,from nostalgia and reverence to pure joy.
A Journey of Musical Discovery
Rev. Meyer’s personal connection with the Mila Vocal Ensemble adds a touch of serendipity to this event. “I served a church in St. Paul, starting in 2004, where Mila rehearses weekly,” she recalls. “I heard their Christmas concert that December, and I was so blown away by the sounds of Slavic and Eastern European folk music that I just wanted to hear more.”
Meyer’s passion for the ensemble led her to become a member for eight years, even serving as its executive director from 2007 to 2013. “In a choral landscape as rich as Minnesota’s, Mila still stands out for their unique repertoire and amazing skill across musical styles,” she says.
A Legacy of cultural Preservation
The Mila Vocal Ensemble’s roots trace back to the Ethnic Dance Theater (EDT), a long-standing Twin Cities dance company founded in 1973. EDT’s commitment to preserving eastern European folk traditions extended to its own folk orchestra and women’s vocal ensemble.
Over the years, members of these ensembles embarked on enriching journeys, including a trip to Bulgaria in 2000 to study with master folk singers from the Filip Kutev Ensemble. In a remarkable milestone,they became the first American group to perform on stage at the Koprivshtitsa Folk Festival,a renowned gathering attracting nearly 4,000 performers every five years.
In 2004, members of EDT’s orchestra and vocal ensemble established the Mila Vocal Ensemble, continuing their dedication to sharing these vibrant musical traditions. The group’s achievements include appearances on National public Radio’s “A Prairie Home Companion” and the release of four complete albums between 2004 and 2007. Most recently, in 2019, members travelled to the Republic of Georgia to further deepen their understanding of traditional singing techniques.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Eastern European folk music brought to life by the extraordinary talents of the Mila Vocal Ensemble.
What is the significance of the Mila Vocal Ensemble’s debut performance in Hutchinson?
Interview with Dr. Elena Petrov, Ethnomusicologist and Cultural Advisor to the Mila Vocal Ensemble
By Archys, News Editor, Archyde
Archyde: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. petrov. The Mila Vocal Ensemble is making its Hutchinson debut this Sunday, January 5, at St. John’s Episcopal Church. Can you tell us more about the significance of this performance?
Dr. Petrov: Thank you for having me. This performance is truly special because it marks the first time the Mila Vocal Ensemble is bringing their unique blend of Eastern European folk harmonies to Hutchinson. For 20 years, this choir has been a cultural bridge, sharing the music of 37 countries with audiences in Minnesota. This debut is a festivity of tradition, community, and the power of music to connect us across borders.
Archyde: The Mila Vocal Ensemble is known for its focus on Eastern European folk songs. What makes this music so distinctive, and how does the choir bring it to life?
Dr. Petrov: Eastern European folk music is deeply rooted in history, storytelling, and the natural rhythms of life.It’s characterized by intricate harmonies, polyphonic singing, and a raw emotional depth that resonates with listeners. The Mila Vocal Ensemble has mastered the art of preserving these traditions while adding their own modern flair. Their performances are not just concerts—they’re immersive experiences that transport audiences to the villages and landscapes where these songs originated.
Archyde: The choir has been active for 20 years and has performed music from 37 countries. How do they choose which traditions to highlight in their performances?
Dr. Petrov: the selection process is both artistic and scholarly. the choir works closely with ethnomusicologists, historians, and cultural experts to identify songs that are not only musically rich but also culturally notable. They aim to showcase the diversity of Eastern Europe,from the haunting melodies of the Balkans to the lively rhythms of the Carpathians. Each performance is a carefully curated journey through time and place.
Archyde: What can the Hutchinson audience expect from this debut performance?
Dr.Petrov: The audience is in for a treat! They’ll experience a vibrant tapestry of sounds, from soulful ballads to spirited dance tunes. The choir’s harmonies are breathtaking, and their passion for the music is palpable. There will also be moments of storytelling, where the choir shares the history and meaning behind the songs. It’s a celebration of heritage, but also a reminder of the universal language of music.
Archyde: As an ethnomusicologist, what do you hope audiences take away from this performance?
Dr. Petrov: I hope audiences leave with a deeper appreciation for the richness of Eastern European culture and the power of folk traditions to unite us. In a world that often feels divided, music like this reminds us of our shared humanity. It’s a chance to celebrate diversity, honor the past, and find joy in the present.
Archyde: Thank you, Dr. Petrov, for sharing your insights. We’re excited to see the Mila Vocal Ensemble bring their magic to Hutchinson!
Dr. Petrov: Thank you! I encourage everyone to come and experience this unforgettable musical journey.
The Mila Vocal Ensemble will perform at 2 p.m. on Sunday, January 5, at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Hutchinson.Don’t miss this possibility to celebrate Eastern European traditions through the power of song.
