In this conversation with renowned Georgian Orthodox chant expert Dr. John Graham, we discuss the origins, history, and preservation of Georgia’s ancient three-part polyphonic sacred music. Dr. Graham—widely regarded as the foremost English-speaking authority on Georgian Orthodox liturgical chant—explores the early development of this musical tradition, from the creation of the Georgian alphabet and the earliest neumed manuscripts to the spread of Christianity in the Caucasus. We examine how chant functioned as a prayer in music, the cultural and theological meaning behind its distinctive sound, and why this tradition remains unlike Byzantine chant, Gregorian chant, or any other form of Orthodox Christian music.

We delve into the unique harmonic language of Georgian polyphony, including parallel fifths, stacked fourths, open intervals, and the influence of regional folk music on church repertoire. Dr. Graham explains the differences between the Gelati, Shemokhmedi, and Svetitskhoveli chant schools, revealing how ornamentation, melodic formulas, and harmonic style evolved within each. We also discuss the centuries-long mystery of when liturgical polyphony began in Georgia, its tenuous connections to Mount Athos and Byzantine liturgical music, and how political, cultural, and geographic isolation shaped its development.

Finally, we address the urgent question of preservation: how this 1,500-year-old musical tradition was nearly lost during the Soviet era, and the revival efforts that followed. Dr. Graham shares insights into modern performance practice, oral transmission, and the challenges of keeping authentic Georgian Orthodox chant alive in a rapidly changing world. This interview is an essential resource for anyone interested in sacred music, Eastern Orthodox Christianity, Caucasus history, or the world’s oldest forms of polyphonic choral music.

Videos of chants are taken directly from John Graham’s channel, with his permission.

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