Member Choirs of the Serbian Singing Federation
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Atlanta, Georgia - Sts. Peter & Paul Serbian Orthodox Church Choir |
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Boston, MA - Desanka Maksimovic Choir of St. Sava Boston |
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A History of the Serbian Singing Society BRANKO RADIČEVIĆ – Chicago, IL With the influx of Serbian immigrants in Chicago in the early 20th century, social and cultural organizations began to form within this community. The Serbian Singing Society Branko Radičević (“Brankies”) was established on November 14, 1906. Named after Branko Radičević, the great Serbian lyric poet, it was the first Serbian choir in the U.S. and Canada. From this choir would spring a continental choral movement, culminating in the founding of the Serbian Singing Federation of America and Canada (SSF) on March 29, 1931, at the Brankies’ first national convention, held on the occasion of its 25th Anniversary. Read More
The aim of Brankies was to foster and perpetuate Serbian music, and to provide a locus for cultural and social activity for Serbian immigrants. With the lack of printed music and professional choral directors, they relied on members’ musical memory. The Society also performed plays, often dramas with music, which helped keep the cultural life, songs, and language of the colony alive. Gradually the choir began competing in festivals, winning trophies and gaining a following. Their concerts became financial and artistic successes. Throughout its history, the Society has given to every worthy Serbian cause by donating its services and assisting financially. In 1924 Brankies commemorated the 100th anniversary of Branko Radičević’s birth, donating the event’s net proceeds toward building a monument to the choir’s patron poet in one of Belgrade’s parks. During the 1930s, under the direction of Alexander Savine, Brankies became more professional musically, twice winning the coveted Pupin Memorial Cup at the national championship for mixed choirs sponsored by the SSF. It made many radio appearances, including several coast-to-coast network concerts; one concert, sung in honor of King Peter II upon his birthday, was broadcast around the world. An important aspect of Brankies’ activities has been to sing liturgical responses at the Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral in Chicago and take part in Serbian religious and cultural celebrations. Through wars and crises, the schism of the Serbian Church in the U.S. and its eventual reintegration, Brankies have used the rich Serbian musical opus to keep the traditions and ethos of our forefathers vibrant. Over the years, the Society has donated generously to the Church––in Chicago, throughout the U.S., and in the former Yugoslavia––helping build, restore, and reconstruct churches. Since 1973, Brankies experienced a new musical flowering under the direction of Elizabeth Neskow. The choir has sung in the annual Christmases Around the World event at the Museum of Science of Industry, performed at the Ravenswood ArtWalk festival, and sung at many Serbian choral concerts throughout North America as well as at countless weddings and funerals. Brankies’ Night in Belgrade, an elegant fundraising event, presents songs in the Skadarlija tradition widely enjoyed by parishioners. It has been honored to sing the liturgical responses for many milestone events in Serbian parishes in the U.S. and Canada. These include the elevation of Bishop Christopher to Metropolitan in 1991, and the Hierarchical Liturgy with His Holiness Patriarch Pavle in 1992 and with His Holiness Patriarch Irinej in 2011. A long-standing Brankies tradition is Christmas caroling for parishioners in nursing homes, shut-ins, and those unable to attend Christmas services. This is an important contribution Brankies make each year to support and give back to our Serbian community. In November 2006 Brankies celebrated their 100th anniversary with a Grand Centennial Concert and banquet. Because this was a celebration of 100 years of the choir’s singing, Brankies moved away from the customary concert format, and prepared a program that would take the audience on a musical journey from the middle ages, to modern day Serbia, Orthodoxy, and beyond. Setting the tone for concert, the lights were turned off, and singers entered the “stage” walking in from the back of the darkened Cathedral carrying candles and holding the drone pitch while soloist Ivan Budišin sang the 12th-century chant, Agios o’ Theos – Svjati Bože. The program featured both sacred and secular selections, some not traditionally heard at an SSF member choir concert, such as an arrangement of the American folk song Shenandoah, Song for Athene by the English composer John Tavener, and Rachmaninoff’s Blažen Muž. The Branko Radičević Ensemble Group, comprised of members within the Brankies, made their debut, performing So Svjatimi composed by Stevan S. Mokranjac and Pod Sjajem Zvezda composed by Predrag Ivanović, the first Serbian jazz composer. The concert concluded with an arrangement of America the Beautiful and a mass chorus performance of Bože Pravde and Mnogaja Ljeta. His Eminence Archbishop Christopher presented the Medal of St. Sava, Third Degree, to the Choir on the occasion of its Centennial, for being 100 years old and singing every Sunday in Church, thereby glorifying God in song. It was the first such honor bestowed upon a choir on this continent, in this case the oldest Serbian choir in North America. His Eminence also presented two Episcopal Gramatas. The first was awarded to Vera Monson for her 70 years of membership and active involvement in the Choir. Vera was the first woman to be president of the Choir and possibly one of the first female presidents of any non-sisterhood church organization on this continent. The second Episcopal Gramata was presented to Elizabeth Neskow, for her then 34 years as Brankies Director. Ms. Neskow’s love of Serbian sacred and secular music, selfless dedication to Brankies, and her tenure as the longest standing Director of the Choir have ensured her a place in history. Brankies became one of the first SSF choirs to participate in festivals sponsored by the Serbian Orthodox Choral Association (SOCA) under the auspices of the New Gračanica Metropolitanate of the Serbian Orthodox Church. In 2010 Brankies, through the initiative and advocacy of then-president Jelena Stojaković and then-director Elizabeth Neskow, spearheaded the joint SSF–SOCA Choral Festival “One Love, Serbian Song.” Co-organized by the SSS Branko Radičević (SSF choir) and Stevan St. Mokranjac Choir (SOCA choir), this was the first time that choirs from both sides of the church schism came together at a Festival and sang in love and camaraderie. Friends and family members who hadn’t seen each other in nearly 50 years were hugging and crying. This historic Festival was a huge success and did much to heal old wounds. In 2011 Brankies hosted the annual SSF Choral Workshop, attended by 51 participants from North America. This was the first time in the history of these workshops that a musical professional from Serbia was engaged. Maestra Tamara Petijević, a renowned musicologist, composer, and director of Orthodox sacred music, presented workshops. Other presenters included Protodeacon Vadim Gan, and keynote speaker Dimitry Gortinsky, who sang under Mokranjac in Serbia. This event marked the beginning of a long and wonderful relationship with Dr. Petijević, who has worked with Brankies on projects in 2011, 2012, and 2018. In March 2013 Elizabeth Neskow, the longest active director in the choir’s history (40 years), retired as director. Her dedication and musical contributions were honored at a banquet during which she received several awards. The Patriarchate bestowed upon her the Medal of Carica Milica, the first time that medal was awarded to someone on this continent. She also received her third Grammata from the Midwestern Diocese. Elizabeth Neskow was further honored with the title of Director Emerita of Brankies. Upon retiring, she passed the baton to Popadija Jelena Vranić. These two directors, who hold music degrees, made it their mission to build the choir’s repertoire, demand musical excellence, and attract young singers. They expanded the choir’s library, adding old and new compositions and collections from musicologists in Serbia. Under both their tenures the choir has performed works never before sung in North America. Jelena Vranić, with her special gift for musical arrangement, applied her talents to Brankies events, such as Night in Belgrade, by taking Starogradske Pesme and arranging them in four-part harmony for the choir to perform. With her experience as assistant director of the renowned children’s choir “Kolibri” and director of the Choir of St. George Church in Belgrade, she masterfully undertook the director of both Brankies and Junior Brankies, the children’s choir. In October 2014 Brankies held a celebration of composer Stevan St. Mokranjac on the centennial of his death. This included a choral workshop co-sponsored with the SSF, in which Professor Nikola Resanović offered a brilliant lecture on the translation of Serbian and Old Church Slavonic texts into English. Other workshop presenters included Jelena Vranić and Dr. Peter Jermihov. In this event Brankies sponsored a symposium, a memorable concert of Mokranjac works, as well as singing the Mokranjac Liturgy at the Sunday Hierarchical Liturgy. The symposium panel consisted of His Grace Bishop Irinej, the Serbian musicologist Dr. Danica Petrović, the Reverend Dr. Vasilije Vranić, and Brankies’ Director Emerita Elizabeth Neskow, who presented the role of the SSF in promoting Mokranjac’s work. On the actual anniversary of Mokranjac’s death, the Brankies sang his Opelo and at the banquet His Grace Bishop Longin bestowed a Gramata to Jelena Stojaković for her dedicated work with the choir. The 10th Anniversary celebration of the Chicago-Belgrade Sister City Partnership on April 13, 2016, was another milestone event in which Brankies participated, singing beneath the majestic Tiffany dome of Preston Bradley Hall at the Chicago Cultural Center. On October 1, 2016, Brankies sang at Nichols Concert Hall in Evanston, IL, on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the St. Sava Academy. Among other works, they performed the world premiere of Nataša Bogojević’s Oče premudri, svetitelju Savo (O Most Wise Father, Saint Sava), with internationally famed cello soloist Maja Bogdanović. In July 2017, a number of Brankies’ singers were selected for the Pan-Orthodox choir, under the direction of Dr. Jermihov, that sang for the Glorification of St. Mardarije at the St. Sava Serbian Monastery in Libertyville, IL. The current choir director, Jelena Stojaković, continues the tradition of her predecessors, bringing new Serbian choral compositions into the Brankies’ repertoire. Among her artistic achievements is the restructuring, along with current president Mike Minkel, of Night in Belgrade in February 2020 to more closely resemble the Bohemian atmosphere of Belgrade’s Skadarlija. The majority of the musical numbers performed were composed or arranged by young, contemporary composers living in Serbia. She brought in Dr. Peter Jermihov, the renowned Orthodox conductor, to coach Brankies in order to improve vocal performance and conduct them in concerts. Continuing her own musical education, Jelena Stojaković has excelled in Master Classes for Conducting presented by worldwide professional musicians as well as her continued vocal and conducting classes with Dr. Jermihov. During the difficult time of the coronavirus epidemic, Jelena Stojaković devised virtual rehearsals with the choir. During the cathedral’s shut-down, she and the two associate directors, David Sekicky and Svjetlana Glišić, sang for the entire Holy Week and Easter services, which were streamed online. This afforded spiritual support to both clergy and parishioners participating online during the services. As the Cathedral was allowed by authorities to open its doors, Brankies have returned to the choir loft to sing for the liturgies, maintaining the requisite social distancing. During the pandemic Brankies have participated in various virtual choral performances and ad hoc singing “zabave” online. In addition to her work with Brankies, Jelena Stojaković directs Junior Brankies, the children’s choir that sings regularly in church, for concerts, and at other events. Under her tutelage, this junior choir has grown to 50 singers and has flourished through an expanded repertoire and ever-increasing musical abilities. Each president and director has added to Brankies’ rich tradition of choral excellence. Through their leadership, we look to the choir’s youth to continue as caretakers for generations to come. It is they who will preserve the rich heritage of Serbia’s past, honor its splendid traditions, and create new inroads for future eras. |
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The SSS Ravanica is 89 years old and continues to be an active member of the Serbian Singing Federation of America and Canada. The choir was organized and flourished initially through the efforts of the founder of the Serbian Singing Federation, Vladimir (Vlajko) Lugonja and the many dedicated singers and directors who wished to perpetuate Serbian Culture and choral music in North America. The choir was and still is community based, whose members love to sing and participate in the Serbian Orthodox Divine Liturgy each Sunday as well as performing cultural music from many Serbian and American/Serbian composers. The initial years (1931–1950) saw the choir organize and grow in their performances to become “ambassadors “of good will traveling to numerous cities performing as invited guests at various Serbian Choirs and civic organizations. As the choir’s reputation grew they were invited to perform at more venues traveling throughout the United States and Canada. The principal choral director during this time was Mrs. Etheleen P. Adams. The early 1950’s saw the choir go through a transition where membership slipped and a variety of choir directors took the lead through 1957. These directors were Professor Sanin and Nick George. The appointment of Professor Sava Vujkov in 1957 was a turning point for the choir. This period brought out the very best in the singers and provided a bed-rock for future directors. Read More
The choir expanded in the 1960’s and continued to travel and perform. The membership grew despite the many challenges in maintaining a viable choir. College, along with many competing interests, limited participation, but growth continued in spite of these challenges thanks to the leadership of the choir officers and directors such as, Nevenka Vukmirovich, Dr. Millard Golusin, Nicholas George, Alex George, Rodney Glusac, Robert Vukmirovich and Steve Pavlekovich. In the 1970’s and 80’s Dr. Millard Golusin stepped in to take the choir to new levels of excellence with his directing, he continued right through to 2013. During that same period of time several choir members became active in the leadership of the Serbian Singing Federation. Past President of the SSF included Paul Adams, Rodney Glusac, Dr. Milan Chonich, Dr. Richard Goich, Stevo Medich, and Donna Kecman Medich. Past Executive Secretaries of the SSF include Bob Vukmirovich, Stevo Medich and Executive Secretary Emeritus Paul Bielich. The SSF also saw increased participation and support from the Ravanica Choir, with the appointment of Dragan Koprivica, Petra Koprivica, Bob Petrovic and Kathy Anderson to various SSF Board positions over the years From the 1990’s to the present time the choir has hosted festivals and concerts along with club night performances while still maintaining an active travel schedule. In 1994, the choir traveled to Butte, Montana for their 90th Anniversary. During this time, a number of choir members volunteered and continue to volunteer to direct the choir during Divine Liturgy thereby taking the burden off one director to be in church each Sunday. These past and present choir members are Michalene Payok, Donna Kecman Medich, Bob Vukmirovich, Daniel Zegarac, Nick George, Dr. Milan Chonich and Petra Koprivica. 2006 was the 75th Anniversary for the Ravanica Choir, along with the 75th Anniversary of the Serbian Singing Federation, and the celebrations were held in Detroit to a sellout crowd. In 2013 Petra Koprivica and Danny Capuzzi took over as our new concert directors. That year a Fall Concert with Omaha and Kansas City as our honored guests, along with the Windsor Choir and The Detroit Tamburitzans Orchestra, was performed to yet another sellout crowd. We also performed as invited guests of The Detroit Tamburitzans Orchestra at their Spring Concert. Over the years we have entertained our parish and guests with what we have entitled “Veslo Vece” - an evening of merriment (usually held right before lent in November or in February) where we sing and act out favorite Serbian songs both as a group and with many various soloists. Our community has loved this evening of performance and delicious dinners. Our last Veselo Vece took place in 2017. As of recent, the Ravanica Choir has joined forces with the Gracanica Choir of Windsor, Ontario to sing at SSF Festivals. Both choirs combined to sing in Milwaukee at the 2019 SSF Festival and had planned to participate in the 2020 SSF Festival which was to be held in Monroeville, Pennsylvania. At the present time, the choir consists of 28 participating members who continue to sing for the Divine Liturgy each Sunday and all holiday services. The Ravanica Choir annually celebrates their Patron Saint, The Three Holy Hierarchs in February. The SSS Ravanica is comprised of a dedicated group that continues the traditions set out by our founder Vlajko Lugonja. Currently, our SSS Ravanica Board is made up of the following: Mary Downie - President, Mila Bednarz - 1st Vice President - Danielle Schaldenbrand – 2nd Vice President, Martha Teshich – Corresponding Secretary, Florence Sarkissian – Recording Secretary, Helen Chonich – Treasurer, Bob Petrovic – Financial Secretary. |
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The St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Cathedral Choir came into existence in 1964 and has provided weekly liturgical responses in the St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Cathedral in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada ever since its’ inception. We meet regularly on Monday nights at 7pm for practices learning both liturgical and cultural music. Annually we organize a concert and/or Prelo “Play” for our Serbian community. Other events that keep our choir active is singing for our neighbouring SSF Choir Concerts, Christmas Carolling, singing for our Church Slava , Chetnik Events, funerals, pomens and weddings. Our choir members are very active in our Serbian Orthodox community! All this is done under the guidance of our current and long time directress Protinica Mira Stojsavljevich. Follow us on Facebook “St Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Cathedral Choir of Hamilton” or e-mail us at . |
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Johnstown, Pennsylvania - St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Choir |
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Joliet, Illinois - S.S.S. Mita Topalovich The Mita Topalovich Choir sings for Liturgy every Sunday, and when asked will sing for pomens, funerals, and weddings throughout the year. Choir is an important ministry of the parish as we are called to serve one another with our time, talent, and treasure. We are united to one another by the desire to serve the Lord in song. They rehearse on Wednesday nights at 7:30 P.M. in the Social Center
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Lansing, Illinois - S.S.S. Sloboda S.S. S. Sloboda, proud to be one of the original S.S. F. Charter choirs, was organized in 1927 as choir ''Vjenac" led by Director Joseph Kindl. Sloboda was also blessed with Directors Adam N.Popovich, Vladimir Dobrovolsky, Robert Anderson, Nancy Colakovic, Melanie Evancevich, Joan Jakovich, and Paul Kovacevich. It was during the Depression that the Barn Dance was born where members provided country songs, yodeling and square dancing. During World War II, Adam Popovich presented his first important work "Ratne Pesme" (War Songs) followed by "Orao Klikce" in the late 4o's. Among other songs arranged by Adam were "Kazi Leno," "Kroz Domovine" (a medley from Yugoslavia's provinces), and arranged tamburasi accompaniment for these songs and "Svatovac" and "Dalmatinski Sjakas". In 1957, Sloboda participated in the Inaugural festivities for President Eisenhower. Sloboda could be found singing at local choir concerts and singing in Serbian communities throughout the United States and Canada. Many friendships were formed; some romances turned marriages. Sloboda delighted in appearing in the annual S. S. F. Festivals and has remained a staunch, devoted choir committed to its Federation. In 1976, The American Bicentennial brought an exciting collaboration with S. S. S.Stevan Sijacki, Milwaukee. + Father Milan Markovina suggested a combined chorus to perform Bosnjakovich's "Albanska Golgotha" with the Milwaukee Symphony. The two choirs performed at Sloboda's Spring concert, along with 35 tamburasi from the Chicago area. They repeated this concert in Milwaukee's Performing Arts Center along with the Milwaukee Symphony, opera singers, and again a week later in Chicago's Orchestra Hall. This accomplishment was a source of pride for all singers, for who among our pioneer members would dare dream that "Niko Nema" sung by our own Ted Popovich and "Pjevaj Mi Sokole" would rock the walls of Chicago's famous Orchestra Hall. In 2005, Sloboda sang at Chicago's Cultural Center for the ceremony that united Chicago and Belgrade as sister-cities. Members have hosted many SSF Festivals, Choral Workshops, and Conventions. We are proud of our members who have served on the SSF Executive Board-Presidents + Helen Nakarda, Bob Anderson; 2nd Vice President Ljubi Hayden; Treasurer Bob Anderson; Assistant Executive Secretary(s) Ana Cvetovich, +Georgine Stoisolovich, Joan Jakovich, Ljubi Hayden; Auditing Board Member Ljubi Hayden. We are honored to be Kumovi to S. S. S. St. Steven, Alhambra; S. S. S. St. George, Duluth; S. S. S. Gracanica, Windsor; S. S. S. St. Nicholas, Omaha; S. S. S. St. George, Kansas City; S. S. S. Bishop Stefan Lastavica, Schereville; and S. S. S. Holy Trinity, St. Louis. We continue to sing Liturgical responses and rehearse on Tuesdays. Though our numbers are not what they once were, our love for Serbian song remains strong, the same as it was for ''Vjenac" in 1927. |
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The first choir in Kansas City was formed as an all female a cappella choir in 1939 under the direction of Father Borah Petrovich and his son, Misha Petrovich. The following year, Father Petrovich passed away, and Father Dushan Milakov came to serve the Kansas City parish. In 1952 Father Milakov became the choir director and continued until his departure from the parish in 1956. For over 17 years, this founding church choir sang at various church social events and liturgical services. In March of 1956, the parish welcomed Father Milan Bajich and his family to Kansas City. Father Bajich was instantly well received by the parishioners. With his renowned musical talents, one of his first duties he embraced was directing the choir. Father Bajich used these talents and his excellent musical training he received at the Sremski Karlovci Orthodox Seminary to reorganize the choir. Just nine months after his arrival, the choir became a member of the Serbian Singing Federation with the Holy Trinity Serbian Choir from St. Louis, Missouri serving as their kumovi in November of 1956. Proto Bajich retired as the parish priest in Kansas City in 1995 and announced his retirement as the choir director at the 58th S.S.F. Choral Festival in Phoenix, Arizona in 1999. Kansas City was blessed to have him as their spiritual leader of the church and director of the choir for more than 40 years. His commitment to the choir and the federation was acknowledge at the 60th S.S.F. Choral Festival in Omaha, Nebraska in 2001, where he was presented with the +Adam N. Popovich Directors' Award. Proto Milan Bajich continued to be an active member of the choir and church until his passing in 2004. Over the past 60 years, the S.S.S. St. George has been honored to participate as a guest choir in many Serbian communities across the United States and Canada. The choir has made many close friendships through their participation in these various S.S.F. events, but no bond is stronger than their friendship with their neighboring choir the S.S.S. St. Nicholas of Omaha, Nebraska. Many trips have been made between these two cities over the years in order to support and participate in each other's annual fall concert weekends. The choir is very active in the Greater Kansas City community, having taken part in the Mayor's Christmas Tree lighting ceremony several years, performing in numerous local concerts, and representing the country of Serbia at the Annual Kansas City Ethnic Enrichment Festival since its creation almost 30 years ago. |
Lenexa, Kansas - S.S.S. St. George
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McKeesport, Pennsylvania - St. Sava Serbian Church Choir The church choir is doubtless the most essential and inspirational of all church organizations. The St. Sava mixed choir, organized in 1934, by Father Popovich, has faithfully served the church for over 70 years and continues to add a deep spiritual dimension to the beauty of the liturgical services. This group of dedicated singers has demonstrated a true sense of loyalty and dedication to this vital ministry of church singing. |
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Midland, Pennsylvania - Dr. Laza Kostich Serbian Singing Society History of Dr. Laza Kostich S.S.S. The Dr. Laza Kostich Choir Serbian Singing Society was organized in the year 1936. The choir assumed the name of the great Serbian poet and composer – Dr. Laza Kostic. A meeting was held on February 9, 1936, at the Serbian National Home in Midland, and plans were completed with the first officers being elected. They included: President – John Gypalo, Vice President – Walter Dragelevich, Secretary-Daisy Sobat, Treasurer – George Vukelich, Publicity Manager – Ann Meriage, and Honorary Advisor – Dorothy Vranes. Mrs. Vranes merits special comment when history is being recorded. As the founder and organizer of the choir, her untiring efforts, love and devotion were unparalleled. The Serbian community is eternally indebted to her foresight and continued loyalty during her lifetime. Her interest and inspiration was exemplified when each of her five sons have been members of the Dr. Laza Kostich Choir at various times of their lives. On May 9, 1936, a dance was sponsored by the choir where they were admitted to membership in the Serbian Singing Federation by Mr. V. M. Lugonja, Supreme Secretary. The choir’s first appearance was in Akron, Ohio at the Eastern Choral Festival during Memorial Day weekend in May, 1936. The Dr. Laza Kostich Choir S.S.S. was the youngest choir participating, organized a mere three months earlier. Our first delegates to the S.S.F. Convention, which was held in Akron, Ohio, were Dorothy Vranes and Nick Rukavina. During World War ll, the Choir became inactive but as the war ended in December 1945, 90 members answered the call to reorganize and elected George Herak as the new president. The service of Victor J. Bakunoff, of Weirton, WV as director of the reorganized choir was obtained, and through his untiring efforts, resulted in distinction and praise to the choral group. In January 1947, we welcomed a new Priest to our St. George Parish, the Rev. Milorad Dobrota. Through his efforts and zeal, we were introduced to the The choir celebrates their Slava annually on February 15, which is Presentation of our Lord, Sretna Gospodnje. Former Kumovi for the choir were Mr. & Mrs. Nick Relic and Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Kragulac. Currently, our Kuma is Ms. Kata Vidakovich. Kata has been very supportive and generous to the choir over the years. The journeys of the Dr. Laza Kostich Choir have taken us all over the United States and Canada. Countless concerts, broadcasts and television appearances have become part of our repertoire, as have singing in our home community. These combined experiences have resulted in a record which included both religious and secular music. During the past years, the choir has contributed much to the religious and cultural life of our Serbian community. This is a result of many hours of hard work. Through the international language of music, the choir introduced the best that is in us to the American people. The choir is a source of inspiration of love toward everything that is Serbian and traditional. In its vast activities, the choir has brought to the fore, many artistic achievements in Serbian Orthodox church music and folk music. The choir was, and is, a most valuable treasure of Serbian heritage through which more than 300 Serbian young people of the St. George Community have passed. |
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Milwaukee, Wisconsin - S.S.S. Stevan Sijacki History of the Stevan Sijacki Choir The Stevan Sijacki Choir was founded during the Great Depression at the “Old Dome” on 3rd and National. In 1936, the former AleksaShantich Choir was reorganized and renamed to honor the Serbian composer Stevan Sijacki. Under the direction of Father George Petrovich, church director Michael Petrovich, and first president Leo Marich, the choir became members of the Serbian Singing Federation (SSF) in 1937, sponsored by our kumovi choir Branko Radichevich of Chicago, Illinois. Following Father George Petrovich’s departure in 1943, Steve Jursek became director. During World War II, the choir became an all-female chorus directed by Gladys Borkovich Monafo from 1942 to 1945. The 1950’s gradually brought a return of men to the Stevan Sijacki ranks, which in turn led to an expansion of the choral activities. The choir began learning secular folk music, in addition to the primary focus of liturgical responses. The Sijacki’s hosted the first of many SSF Choral Festivals in 1952, and also participated in the consecration of our beautiful new cathedral on Oklahoma Avenue in 1958. |
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First Serbian Choir in Toronto and Mississauga: The Saint Sava Choir’s decades of faithful service to our Church and community are a record of many “firsts”. Inspired by the formation of Church choirs in Windsor, Niagara Falls and Hamilton, the youth group “Šumadija” formed the Saint Sava Choir on February 20, 1955, the first Serbian Orthodox Choir in Toronto. Kosta Joksimović was the first choir president and Betty Kovač was the first director. From 1955 to 2001 the Choir responded in the Saint Sava Church in Toronto before moving in 2001 to the All Serbian Saints Cathedral in Mississauga where it became the first Serbian Orthodox Choir in that city too. The Saint Sava Church and Choir were the heart of many community activities. The first Sunday School was established in 1956. In the 1960s three junior groups were all under the umbrella of the Choir: the Junior Choir, Junior Tamburica Group and Junior Folklore group, later renamed Oplenac. The senior Stražilovo folklore group was formed then too. Inspired by the Orchestra Drina, the Orchestra Lika started performing in 1967 and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2017. During the years of Toronto’s Caravan festivities the Serbian pavilion at the Saint Sava Church was called the Oplenac Pavilion. Read More
At the Saint Sava Choir’s first fall concert in November 1955 the Njegoš Choir of Cleveland was the first guest choir. The Choir organized many events in cooperation with the Kolo Kraljica Aleksandra and the folklore groups. Over more than six decades our Choir sang at countless Church events, including the consecration of the majestic All Serbian Saints Cathedral and the blessing of the beautiful frescoes which adorn the Church. We have sung before Serbian Patriarchs, the Ecumenical Patriarch, Serbian Metropolitans and Bishops, Serbian Royalty, Canadian and Serbian dignitaries, and at the consecration of our Canadian Bishop Mitrofan.
Serbian Singing Federation (Srpski pevački savez): Formed in 1931 by Vlajko Lugonja, the SSF has helped preserve our musical heritage for almost 90 years by bringing together Church choirs at concerts, festivals, conventions and choral workshops. The Petar Krstich Choir of Steubenville served as the Saint Sava Choir’s “kumovi” at our induction into the SSF in November 1955. They were also the honoured guests at our Choir’s 60th anniversary in October 2015. Over the decades the Saint Sava Choir participated in over 30 SSF Festivals and hosted SSF events such as the 4th SSF Special Choral Festival in 1961, the 24th SSF Convention in 1965 with 58 delegates in attendance, the 34th SSF Festival in 1975, and a choral workshop. The Saint Sava Choir played a leading role in the Third District Choir comprised of 120 voices from Toronto, Hamilton (Nash Road), Niagara Falls and Lackawanna choirs. Under its auspices Diocesan Day was held annually from 1966 to 1976 in Niagara Falls even before our Canadian Diocese was formed. It was also entrusted with the responsibility to organize the 750th Anniversary of the Autocephalous Serbian Orthodox Church which was marked at the Saint Nicholas Church on Nash Road in Hamilton in 1969. Presidents, Directors, Singers: Throughout its history the Choir has had over 300 singers, 27 presidents, 10 directors, more than 5 assistant directors and 2 professional instructors. Some served for 15 or 20 years. The current long time president, John Lukich, has also served as Choir director for many years and is currently assisted by Miloš Kostić. Long time president, Bora Dragašević, was also named honorary president and served as first “kum” for the Saint Sava Choir’s new slava, Saint John Chrysostom, celebrated for the first time on February 9, 2020. He commissioned iconographer Milica Jakšić to write the beautiful original icon of the Choir’s patron saint which was blessed at the All Serbian Saints Cathedral. For its 60th anniversary in 2015 the Choir was proud to present our anniversary book and two new CDs. We remember with gratitude our Choir founders, executive members, directors, singers, priests, parishioners and families who contributed to this musical odyssey. May future generations see that love of faith, tradition and family made this musical journey a reality. With thanksgiving to the Lord, Saint Sava and Saint John Chrysostom, we pray that the Saint Sava Choir will celebrate its centennial in this same spirit of commitment and love. Draga Dragašević |
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada -
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On June 3, 1929, the 63-member St. Nicholas Choir of Wilmerding, Pennsylvania, was organized with +Nellie Mamula as its director. There were no officers until 1932 when formal meetings began. Instrumental to the choir’s organization was the Chica Ilija Orchestra, the first Pittsburgh area Tamburitzan orchestra to broadcast on the radio. Lifelong and honorary member +Sam Blagovich was part of that orchestra along with +George Vuick, who served as choir librarian throughout his entire membership. Under the direction of +Very Rev. Dr. Milan Popovich, the choir reached its peak membership in 1933 with 105 singers. There were so many members that it has been said that at the first SSF Festival in the mid 1930’s, the platform holding singers collapsed during its performance. Fr. Popovich remained the director until 1936. +Professor Boris Dobrovolsky assumed the directorship in 1937 and remained until the start of WWII. Following the war, in 1946, +Professor Ivan Georgieff assumed the responsibility of the director for the 50-member choir. The following year, in 1947, the choir was officially indicted into the Serbian Singing Federation. In 1948, “Prof” Georgieff (“Prof” as he was lovingly called), organized the Male Chorus. In the early 1950s, Prof, along with +George Paich reorganized the men into the tour de force that eventually recorded the still popular “Sacred Music” album.” At Prof’s request, +Dusan Saula began directing the choir in the 1950’s. At that time, +Mitzi (Novakovich) Vukic assisted with the directing. Read More
+Prof Georgieff remained with the choir until the 1960’s when +Very Rev. Fr. Milan Markovina, pastor of the church, took over the choir directorship. Fr. Milan arranged many of the liturgical songs and adapted English text to Serbian melodies that are still sung. Fr. Milan has also been credited for reorganizing the Male Chorus and making their 1963 album/CD Sacred Music. During these years, the choir was privileged to have the musical accompaniment of the Plavi Mjesec Orchestra, which frequently performed both at home and on trips to Serbian parishes across the United States and Canada. Fr. Milan left our parish in 1969, and Dusan Saula took over as director. In 1971, the Monroeville church complex was consecrated. Although Dushie continued to direct in church, the choir had +Al Hazeem and Dr. Ron Bevan as concert directors for 1971 and 1974 respectively. Under the directorship of Dr. Bevan, the choir made an album of secular songs entitled Yugoslavian Journey. Dushie Saula remained the choir director until his retirement in 2000. The choir honored Dushie with a testimonial that recognized his many years of service. Mitzi (Novakovich) Vukic and Janet (Popovich) Tumbas served as assistant directors while Martha Kukich Steen assisted Dushie at rehearsals. Martha Kukich Steen directed the choir after Dushie’s retirement in 2000. Both Martha and her Father +Danny Kukich have arranged many instrumental pieces to accompany the choir. Professor Milutin Lazich assumed responsibility as Director in 2004. The SSF presented Milutin the 2005 Adam Popovich Award for outstanding contributions for the perseveration of Serbian music. So too, in 2003 when our choir hosted the SSF Festival, the St. Nicholas parish was privileged that two native sons, +Very Rev. Milan Markovina and +Dusan Saula were also given the same award. In 2010, Milutin retired from directing the concert choir. After he left, Lorraine Milovac agreed to become musical director. Since 2018, the St. Nicholas Choir has been lead by Janice Smargie, and assisting Janice are Janet (Popovich) Tumbas, Snezena Lazich, and Nikola Vranesevic, with Janet Tumbas assisting for many faithful years. Although the choir’s primary function is to sing responses during Divine Liturgy it finds many other ways to serve the church and the SSF. Our choir has hosted two conventions and now four festivals. The conventions were held in 1979 and 1997, with festivals being held in 1980, 1989, 2003, and 2020. The choir also hosted the SSF Choral Workshop in August 2006, which made a CD recording of The Divine Liturgy that Sunday. College students and elderly shut-ins received a copy of the CD because many of them are unable to attend regular church services. The St. Nicholas Church Choir is proud of its 91 year involvement in the St. Nicholas Wilmerding/Monroeville parish and its 73 year history with the SSF. We are equally proud to have choir members who have served as presidents with the SSF, namely Pero Prpa and Mary Paich. It is with pride and the love of our Serbian Orthodox faith and culture that the St. Nicholas Church Choir devote countless hours to this most important endeavor. |
Monroeville, Pennsylvania - St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church Choir
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St. George Choir was founded in Niagara Falls on September 23, 1953. For many years now we have primarily been a church choir singing for Divine Liturgy, weddings, pomens, and other special events held within the church community. |
Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada -
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Following the consecration of St. Nicholas Church in 1917, Divine Liturgy responses were sung by the Serbian school children and worshippers. In the summer of 1931, +His Grace Bishop Mardarije (Uskokovic), the First Serbian Orthodox Bishop of America and Canada, visited our parish and recommended to Professor Buckingham to organize and direct a choir. Professor Buckingham was teaching the SOKO Orchestra at the time. The choir was formed in the fall of 1931 and named SOKO Choir, which translates to hawk. The hawk is a symbol of freedom and strength to the Serbian people, similar to the bald eagle being a symbol to Americans. Upon +Bishop Mardarije’s next visit to Omaha, he heard the voices of the new choir singing, enhancing the beauty of the Divine Liturgy. The choir kept the title SOKO until its induction into the Serbian Singing Federation of America and Canada in 1953. This newly inducted choir of the S.S.F. was then requested either to choose the name of a famous Serbian composer, poet, or its church name. Choosing its church name, the Serbian Singing Society St. Nicholas of Omaha, Nebraska was born. S.S.S. Sloboda of South Chicago (now Lansing, Illinois) served as honored kumovi during the induction and remains as a faithful friend to this day. The S.S.S. St. Nicholas celebrates its Slava on December 19, the Feast of St. Nicholas. Read More
S.S.S. St. Nicholas has established an everlasting bond with its close neighbor, S.S.S. St. George in Lenexa, Kansas. The St. Nicholas parish was honored to have the S.S.S St. George sing the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy responses for the church’s community center consecration in 1976 and church consecration in 1989. The two choirs annually participate in each other’s fall concerts and other special events.
Throughout the years, the S.S.S. St. Nicholas has been active within the Serbian Singing Federation. The choir was chosen as honored guest choir for the 1958 S.S.F. Festival in North Chicago and again at the San Diego, California Festival in 2012. The choir hosted four S.S.F. Conventions, most recently in 2015. The choir also hosted the 60th annual S.S.F. choral festival in 2001. The S. S. S. St. George of Lenexa, Kansas was chosen by the S.S.F. to be the honored guest choir for that occasion. The S. S. S. St. Nicholas has remained faithful to the St. Nicholas parish for over 80 years and the choir’s success can be seen through the dedication of five-year and 50+-year members alike. Through fund-raising efforts, choir trips, picnics, participating in local community events, singing during liturgy and active participation in the S.S.F., the choir continues to maintain a strong presence. Thomas Olsen is the church and concert director and LeighAnn Martic is the assistant church director. Previously, Ann Renard, with the help of +Betty Cubrich as an assistant church director, directed the choir for many years. Ann Renard is still active and participates in many choir activities. The S.S.S. St. Nicholas established the +Joseph A. Churchich Scholarship in 2004, named in honor of one of the most dedicated and talented directors to grace the choir. At that time, the scholarship was an award of $300 and is now $1,000. In addition, our youth members have received over $10,000 in scholarships through the Serbian Singing Federation. The dedication of members young and old guarantees the success of this choir into the future! It is with great historical significance and deep gratitude to have received the spiritual leadership and guidance from +Bishop Mardarije. This very holy and pious man was canonized as a Saint by the Serbian Orthodox Church in September, 2015, followed by his Glorification in July, 2017 with participation of all Orthodox hierarchs of America. His relics (remains) were found to be completely incorrupt after 82 years since his repose. God is glorious in His saints! |
Omaha, Nebraska - S.S.S. St. Nicholas Choir
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In 1959, the start of the Stevan Hristic Choir coincided with the arrival of the first parish priest in Phoenix, AZ, Very Rev. Sava Vujkov. His beautiful tenor voice and leadership inspired a group of parishioners to organize and elect their first executive board. The choir name was suggested by Fr. Vujkov who was a friend of the renowned Serbian composer, Stevan Hristic. The first choir president was Mickey Lontchar. The choir was immediately active with a wide circle of performances, including the Christmas Concert at the Musicians’ Club of Phoenix, and shortly thereafter completed their first recording in 1969. In 1974, the choir was inducted into the Serbian Singing Federation and was honored to have the St. Stephens Serbian Cathedral Choir of Alhambra, CA, as their kumovi. The induction of the choir was combined with the dedication of the new St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church. The first performance by the Stevan Hristic Choir as a member of the SSF was at the annual Bicentennial Singing Festival held in Akron, OH. Since that time, the choir has hosted numerous concert weekends with out-of-town guest choirs from all over the United States and Canada. It has also been honored to host the 1990, 2002, and 2018 SSF Conventions along with the 1994 Choral Workshop and the 1999 Singing Festival. The choir also participated in Jackson, CA at the St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church where they celebrated the 100th anniversary of the first Serbian Orthodox Church to be established in the United States. The choir is still in active in the local and national singing community and proudly awaits the opportunity to host the 2021 Serbian Singing Festival. |
Phoenix, AZ -
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The birth of Holy Trinity Cathedral Choir was one of immediate maturity. It developed from the union of two fine choirs in Pittsburgh – SSS Philip Visnich and SSS St. George. Following the merger of their parishes, St. Sava and St. George, in October 1961, the choirs requested the Serbian Singing Federation to approve their consolidation into the Holy Trinity Choir of Pittsburgh. This consolidation, the first in SSF history, was officially accepted at the 1962 SSF Convention in Joliet, Illinois. The directors of the two choirs, Boris M. Dobrovolsky, who has achieved distinction and honor both here and in Europe for his choral techniques and interpretation, and Milan Vucich, also a skilled musician, were responsible for the success of both choirs. Our foundation turned solid under the direction of Michael Hutnik. His exceptional talent and intense feeling for our music made us an outstanding performing group. With the departure of Hutnik in 1971, James Meena, Kenneth Gargaro, and Barbara Topich assumed directorship. Michael Hutnik returned for a brief period followed by Martha Kukich Steen until 2005 when Robert M. Topich became our teacher and director. In its 43 years, the choir has participated in most SSF Festivals and local concerts as well as appearances on local radio and television, Pan Orthodox services in district churches, and for many years represented the Serbians at the United We Sing Christmas Festival and the Pittsburgh International Folk Festival featuring local ethnic groups. The choir serves as a living medium in preserving the rich Serbian religious and secular musical culture and heritage. In all its endeavors, the Holy Trinity Cathedral Choir faithfully continues to sing to the glory of God and the honor of the Serbian people. |
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San Diego, California -St. George Serbian Orthodox Church Choir |
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San Gabriel, California -St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church Choir |
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The choir began in 1967 with the guidance of His Grace, Bishop Chrysostom, O Blessed Memory, our then parish priest; and Popadija Stojanka Kovacevic, our founder, who helped organize those interested singers in forming a choir, singing behind the cantor’s stand. Since we did not have our own place of worship at the time, our parish held services at Sts. Peter and Paul Russian Orthodox Church in East Chicago till we were able to build our own church. After two years of intense recruiting of young people in the parish and much rehearsing, the choir made its first public appearance on October 11, 1969, at the fall concert of the S. S. S. Stevan Sijacki of St. Sava Cathedral in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Our own Milorad Samardzija made a motion to name our choir after the late Bishop Stefan Lastavica and it was unanimously approved. With the SSF’s approval, we were inducted into the Serbian Singing Federation in 1972 with the S. S. S. St. George of Kansas City as our Kumovi Choir. During the choir’s 53 years of existence, we have traveled to many colonies near and far whether it be a festival or concert weekend, from Merrillville, Indiana to Los Angeles, California, and from Toronto, Canada to Phoenix, Arizona. We have always been committed to supporting our SSF by contributing to its various money-making projects, as well as hosting its national events. Schererville has been the sight for the annual SSF Convention and the 61st SSF Choral “Festival” in 2002, as well as, hosting many guest choirs throughout the United States and Canada at our annual concert weekends. Singing responses at a 7:00 A. M. Monday morning hierarchical liturgy, where His Holiness Patriarch Pavle, O Blessed Memory, co-celebrated, must be one of our choir’s spiritual highlights. Then, who can never forget our trip to Seattle, Washington, where we sang for its church’s consecration weekend festivities? Our involvement in the SSF indicates our commitment in perpetuating our rich Serbian Orthodox heritage through the liturgical and Serbian folk songs we sing. Today the choir continues to faithfully fulfill its obligation to the church by singing responses for every Sunday’s Divine Liturgy. We also strive to participate and support our church and its organizations by attending our church’s community events. In addition, our choir has always been known for its generosity, whether it is to our church, diocese, SSF, community, or motherland. Throughout our 53 years of existence, our members have taken various leadership roles within our church’s community, as well as, on the SSF Executive Board. We are proud to have Milorad Samardzija, one of the federation’s past presidents; +Tom Ostoich, SSF Treasurer; and Joe Kosanovich, Assistant Executive Secretary. Being one of the youngest and smallest choirs of the SSF, one can see we have accomplished much in such a short time. Our choir has seen many changes in its directors, leadership, and membership, but all of these individuals have left us a rich tradition that endures the test of time. |
Schererville, Indiana -
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South Bend, Indiana - S.S.S. Aleksa Shantich |
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St. Petersburg, Florida - St. Sava Church Choir The St Sava Choir of St Petersburg Florida was organized in late February 1982. We were fortunate to have in our midst Nancy Colakovic who agreed to take on the task of forming our choir. We started rehearsals on Friday evenings. In April of 1982, we decided to elect officers of the choir. Shortly after we made a decision to petition the SSF to become a member. We received a warm response from the SSF and were accepted and took the name of our church. In May of 1983, Nancy resigned as choir director and suggested we have Dmeter Dragovich Jr. take over as the director. Dmeter accepted the position of the director. On Sept 29, 1984, we were inducted into the SSF with the Peter Kristich Choir as our sponsors. Dmeter left Florida for a job opportunity. Emil Esapovich became our director and still directs. Our choir sings faithfully in church every Sunday. |
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Steelton, Pennsylvania - S.S.S. Josif Marinkovich According to various past histories, the first attempt to organize a choir in Steelton was made in 1905 through the efforts of Dmitar Kajganich and Dusan Kojicic. It was believed to be the first Serbian choir in the United States and Canada. The beginning was difficult, and it was reorganized formally in July 1906 with Djuro Milosavljevich, Vojinom Kutjevac, and Petrom Kosovanom as the driving forces. Mr. Milosvaljevich, who was the church canter and later ordained a priest, assumed the duties of choir director. The choir, named for Branko Radicevich, the great Serbian poet, ceased to function in 1912 for various reasons. Subsequently, it was revived but never very active. After many years, through the initiative of Stevo Bakich, Stevo Suzic, and Svetozar Nenadovich, action was taken to reactivate the choir. Read More
In 1933, the choir was organized under the name of “Serbian-American Civic and Education Club” with Stevo Bakich serving as the first president. Membership was composed of active singers and their supporters. When Prohibition was repealed, the Club decided to obtain a license for dispensing malt beverages. As the interest of the non-singers slowly turned to becoming a social club, the active singing members felt that they should be a separate organization. As it was customary in those days to dramatize Serbian plays at almost all their functions, the singers organized the Serbian Social and Dramatic Club. The choir then engaged the services of Vlado Konstantinovich of New York City to serve as its first choir director. In early 1935, Mr. Konstantinovich found it necessary to resign the position. Stephen Cordas, a life-long member of the St. Nicholas parish, became the director and continued in that capacity until his retirement in November 1988. Ms. Nadine Klipa was appointed director in December 1988, a position that she served at for over 25 years. Currently Mrs. Nina Radanovic is the Liturgical director and Fr. Christopher Rocknage directs all folklore/concert music. When Vlajko Lugonja organized the Serbian Singing Federation of America, he visited Steelton and encouraged the choir to join the Federation. The Federation is an organization composed of all Serbian choirs in America and Canada. Upon joining the Federation, each choir received the name of a famous Serbian composer, author, or poet. In 1934, the choir joined the Federation and was given the name of Djuro Yaksich, a poet. After a few years, it selected the name of Josif Marinkovich, a composer. To this day, the choir is known as the “Serbian Singing Society Josif Marinkovich.” In 1938, as a member of the Serbian Singing Federation, the choir participated in its first singing festival. For the next nine years or so, the festivals remained competitive. However, after it was confirmed that some choirs in the Federation were using talents outside their respective church choirs in order to win, the festivals ceased to be competitive and merely became a concert-type event. The choir most recently participated at the festival in Aliquippa, PA, in May 2008 and was honored church choir. Some of the past guest appearances of the choir include Carnegie Hall in Pittsburgh, the Yugoslav Embassy in Washington, D. C. (prior to World War II), St. Sava Cathedral in New York City, and the Milwaukee Cathedral in Wisconsin. The choir also shared liturgical responses with the Russian Metropolitan Male Chorus of New York and presented a concert at the Gettysburg College Seminary in Gettysburg, PA. In addition, the choir has made reciprocating guest appearances with neighboring choirs such as Johnstown, Midland, Wilmerding, Aliquippa, Pittsburgh, and Lackawanna. One of the great moments in choir history occurred in September 1985, during the testimonial weekend held for “Prof” Cordas recognizing his 50 years as director. For this occasion, all former choir members were invited to participate in the weekend and to sing responses with the present choir during the liturgy. On September 29, 1985, history was made when the choir was professionally recorded and produced their very first tape. In 2006, a tape of the choir’s 1956 Christmas radio program was reproduced and digitally remastered to a CD format. The tape was presented to the choir by the late Bob Yanich who, as a local radio personality, arranged for and narrated this memorable program of Christmas music performed by the choir. The program, taped in our church on South Second Street, was aired on WHGB, Harrisburg, PA, on January 6, 1956 and repeated in 1957 and 1958. This very special piece of our musical history is now preserved so that it can be enjoyed for future generations. In addition to its musical contributions, the choir has, and continues to support, the church with financial contributions; as well as by donating the baptismal font, the church bells, and the stained-glass (rosette) circular window located at the top front of the church and situated in the choir loft. With continued hard work and dedication, it is our hope that the choir will prosper for years to come and will continue the tradition of singing our beautiful liturgical and folk music.
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The Petar Krstich Choir was formed in 1943 as the Mirjana Singing Society of Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Church in Steubenville, Ohio. Their first public concert was held in 1946. That same year, the choir took the name of the prominent Serbian composer and director, Petar Krstich. In 1948 the Choir was received as a member of the Serbian Singing Federation by the Federation’s Executive Secretary, Vlajko Lugonja, with SSS St. Elijah of Aliquippa as their Kumovi Choir. The PK Choir has been honored with invitations to sing all over the United States and Canada. They have performed on radio and television and have sung for special events at the request of the Serbian Orthodox Church in the United States and Canada, the Movement of Serbian Chetniks “Ravna Gora,” the Serb National Defense of Canada, and the Serb National Federation. The Choir, however, is first and foremost a church liturgical choir, singing the responses in both Church Slavonic and in English faithfully at the Divine Liturgy and many other services in their home parish. Most recently singing at the local nursing homes not just for the church parishioners but also for some of their own Petar Krstich choir members who can no longer attend church services and choir practices. We never want to forget our own members who have help to make our choir what it is today. |
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Choir Director: Protinica Jelena Vranic |
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In 1945, a group of young Serbs organized the first Serbian Youth Club of Windsor, known as Srbadija. They held meetings at the Serbian Hall on Drouillard Road in hopes of preserving their religion, culture and traditions. Their purpose was to unite the Serbian youth in Windsor, promote educational endeavours, organize athletic and recreational activities and assist the Serbian Orthodox congregation. This close-knit group of friends supported one another through good times and bad. They sang songs, danced kolos and promoted their Serbian heritage spending many evenings and weekends in that little hall. On Sundays, the little hall was transformed into a church; a portable iconostasis and temporary altar were set up in front of the stage while the hall itself became the nave of the church. Father Djuro Vuckovic approached this circle of friends with a request for them to sing responses in church. They gladly accepted this honour and began informal rehearsals. It was not until the spring of 1949 that the Serbian Singing Society Gracanica (S.S.S. Gracanica) formed under the directorship of Nada Alaica. She travelled 1 hour from Chatham to Windsor every practice and on Sundays to direct the choir. S.S.S. Gracanica had its first choir rehearsal in the basement of Pero’s Hotel on Wyandotte Street, owned by Mr. Pero Bulat, as the Serbian Hall on Drouillard Road had no piano. The choir also practiced at the Martin House on Langlois Street owned by the Mrksich Family. Many S.S.S. Ravanica members from Detroit, Michigan came over to Windsor bringing music and lending their voices to help support the new choir in its endeavours. As with any organization or group, there are many growing pains in the beginning. Vlajko Lugonja took an interest in the growth of the choir supported them in their efforts and was instrumental in leading them into becoming a member of the Serbian Singing Federation (S.S.F.). In 1950, S.S.S. Gracanica joined the S.S.F. as an Associate Choir. Associate choirs were those with twenty-four singers or less. In order to perform at a Festival it was required that there be at least 25 singers on stage. Due to this rule S.S.S. Gracanica was not always allowed to perform. The church congregation was anxious to have this organization become well established within the community. The Gracanica Church School Congregation and Circle of Serbian Sisters Princess Jelena readily extended their assistance. It was a team effort within the community, each group reciprocated by helping one another. And so here, it is, over 70 years later and S.S.S. Gracanica looks toward the future with great anticipation. The first 70 years have brought S.S.S. Gracanica so much joy. It is hoped that future children will continue with this tradition of song passing it down through the generations with love. It is the song that has held the choir together and to her we must say thank you. We must also extend our deepest gratitude to our former and current directors. Without their dedication, songs would have been unsung. |
