Sanctuary: A Cathedral Concert, CD Release Celebration February 28, 2008

Oakland's internationally-acclaimed women's vocal ensemble Kitka celebrates the release of SANCTUARY: A CATHEDRAL CONCERT, their 8th independently produced CD on their own Diaphonica label. SANCTUARY showcases meditative and ecstatic songs from Eastern European spiritual traditions woven together with folk songs whose haunting melodies and rich harmonies soar in resonant space. Listeners will be transported by a continuous unfolding of songs expressing a dynamic range of emotion that flows seamlessly from ethereal, contemplative pieces to tunes that rouse with their earthy rhythms. The concert will take place in the glorious natural acoustics of Oakland's historic St. Paul's Episcopal Church.

Kitka, meaning "bouquet" in Bulgarian and Macedonian, began in 1979 as a grassroots group of singers from diverse ethnic and musical backgrounds who shared a passion for the stunning dissonances, asymmetric rhythms, intricate ornamentation, lush harmonies, and resonant strength of Eastern European women's vocal traditions. Since it's informal beginnings, the group has evolved into a professional touring ensemble that has earned recognition for its artistry, versatility, and fresh approach to folk music. Through a busy itinerary of live and broadcast performances, recordings, educational programs, master artist residencies, commissioning programs, and adventuresome collaborations, Kitka has exposed millions to the haunting beauty of their unique body of repertoire. Kitka has recently been featured in national media outlets including PRI's "The World", NPR's "The Story", WNYC's "New Sounds", and National Geographic's "World Music Profiles." An award-winning public TV special "Kitka and Davka in Concert: Old and New World Jewish Music" has aired on more than 80 PBS stations nationwide and has been an official selection at film festivals from Beijing to Toronto.

SANCTUARY: A CATHEDRAL CONCERT and other Kitka recordings and songbooks can be ordered online at www.kitka.org.

$21 advance general / $18 advance students & seniors / $25 door.

Official Website: http://www.kitka.org