Sorrow swells, streaming tears spill forth
In the heart of Vyshhorod, Ukraine, a choir of soloists aged between 55 and 80, known as Pereweslo, has been using their voices to bring comfort and resistance to those affected by the ongoing conflict. The choir, which has been confirmed as a folklore group for the third time, is not widely recognized in the context of amateur choirs or Ukrainian cultural events, but their impact on the community and the morale of the Ukrainian soldiers is significant.
Under the guidance of Director Olga Fainikowa, Pereweslo rehearses at the Uvarovsky Dim cultural center in Vyshhorod. The choir's repertoire consists of about 500 songs, ranging from traditional Ukrainian folk tunes to contemporary compositions. However, their performances are not limited to the stage. The singers of Pereweslo support Ukrainian soldiers with songs and treats, baking cakes and coming up with ideas to show their appreciation and solidarity.
Valeriya Samoshyna, a Ukrainian journalist, pedagogue, and volunteer, is deeply involved with the choir. She is not only a member but also the co-founder of the group "Women of the Ukrainian Armed Forces." Each singer in Pereweslo has personal experiences with war, some having lost relatives or their homes. This emotional investment in the songs they sing gives their performances a profound depth and resonance.
The choir's dream is to perform at a military hospital, bringing their music to those who need it most. They plan to give a celebratory concert once Ukraine wins, a victory they are eagerly awaiting. Despite the losses they have faced—three singers passing away and a soloist being killed—their motivation remains high.
Pereweslo's music serves as a method of expressing resistance, preserving cultural heritage, and providing emotional support to those affected by the conflict. Their songs about cities in Ukraine affected by war, such as Mariupol, Bucha, Irpin, and Volnovakha, are a poignant reminder of the impact of the war and the resilience of the Ukrainian people. Through their music, Pereweslo is not just a choir, but a symbol of hope and unity in times of adversity.
- In addition to their rehearsals at the Uvarovsky Dim cultural center, the choir Pereweslo also explores various aspects of lifestyle, such as food-and-drink, by baking cakes for Ukrainian soldiers.
- Pereweslo's fashion-and-beauty side can be seen in the presentation of their songs, with each singer putting effort into their attire, reflecting personal growth and self-development.
- The choir members, who have personal experiences with war, find solace in their shared love for music and relationships, fostering a strong bond within the group.
- Interested in education-and-self-development, Valeriya Samoshyna, a member of Pereweslo, is also a Ukrainian journalist and pedagogue, furthering her career-development.
- The choir's plans for the future extend beyond performing at traditional stages, with aspirations to perform at military hospitals through personal-growth and shopping for necessary equipment.
- Pereweslo's repertoire, incorporating songs about cities affected by the conflict like Mariupol, Bucha, Irpin, and Volnovakha, serves as a means of preserving the Ukrainian cultural heritage and promoting local travel and sports-related stories.
- The choir's continued existence and resilience in spite of losses they have faced, such as three singers passing away and a soloist being killed, demonstrates their unwavering dedication to their pets, music, and the overall betterment of their community and weather conditions that may arise.
