The women in Kitka are fearless sonic explorers, and you can hear their intrepid spirit in every haunting song. For over four decades, the nine-women Oakland ensemble has developed a vast, breathtaking repertoire of traditional songs from the Balkans, Caucasus and Slavic lands, as well as new material composed for the group drawing on those ancient vocal practices. Traveling to rural communities throughout Eastern Europe and the Caucasus, they’ve gathered songs and communed with elders who are often the last links to centuries-old traditions. The ravishing textures of the women’s voices, unearthly cadences, angular rhythms and unfamiliar languages make Kitka’s performances and recordings an enthralling experience.

Venue support by the William H. Gile Trust Concert Series

ABOUT THE WILLIAM H. GILE TRUST CONCERT SERIES

The William H. Gile Trust was created by Helen B. Gile in 1952.  She left a legacy of more than $700,000 to finance a free concert series in Concord, New Hampshire in memory of her father, William H. Gile.  Helen Gile stipulated that the trust funds were to be managed by what is now Citizens Bank, and that the selection of shows “of the highest type in all respects” was to be made by a committee of three local citizens.

After much planning, the first William H. Gile Concert Series was held during the 1960-61 show season, and, over 60 years later, we are happy to now call the Capitol Center for the Arts our home.