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Kitka: The Harmonies of Eastern Europe

Drawing on the centuries-old tradition of female vocal music from Eastern Europe, the women's ensemble Kitka has won wide acclaim for their lush harmonies and stunning dissonances.

On the CD Wintersongs, Kitka performs traditional hymns and village carols from Romania, Belarus, Latvia, Ukraine, and Macedonia -- countries where winter is seen as a time to express hope for the return of light, health, and fertility in the coming year.

NPR's Jennifer Ludden talks with long-time ensemble members Shira Cion and Juliana Graffagna about the traditions of their music.

Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.

NPR National Correspondent Jennifer Ludden covers economic inequality, exploring systemic disparities in housing, food insecurity and wealth.
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