With harmony, passion and soul, the women of Kol Shira bring an eclectic mix of world languages and musical styles to the stage. Based in Iowa City, Iowa, this all-women sextet has a well deserved reputation for electric performances highlighting their lyrical fusion of the languages, rhythms and melodies from countries around the globe.
The group, whose name translates from the Hebrew as "Voice of Song" has a repertoire that spans many centuries and includes lyrics in over 12 languages. Kol Shira effortlessly blends the ancient and the modern musical traditions of many cultures, proving that world music can be both timeless and universal. Featuring a mix of vocals, flute, guitar, bass, cello and hand-held percussion, Kol Shira is proud to voice the songs of the world.
The group, whose name translates from the Hebrew as "Voice of Song" has a repertoire that spans many centuries and includes lyrics in over 12 languages. Kol Shira effortlessly blends the ancient and the modern musical traditions of many cultures, proving that world music can be both timeless and universal. Featuring a mix of vocals, flute, guitar, bass, cello and hand-held percussion, Kol Shira is proud to voice the songs of the world.
Kol Shira can often be found performing at festivals and other community events as well as in other local venues. We are available for both public and private celebrations. Contact us for more information.
The World Music of Kol Shira
Sound Bite
Ladino has its origin in 14th and 15th century Castillian Spanish. When the Jews were expelled from Spain in 1492, they brought their native Spanish with them to their new lands. Over the next 500 years, as the Jews established themselves in communities as diverse as North Africa, France, Turkey, and South America an increasing number of Hebrew, French, Arabic, Greek and Turkish words were added to a Spanish that was becoming increasingly archaic. Most Ladino speaking communities were destroyed during WW II and today most speakers of Ladino can be found in Israel.
Adio Querida (Goodbye My Love) This modern Sephardic love song is passionate expression of the bitterness of being rejected.
Arvolikos D'Almendra (Almond Orchards ) The almond trees planted are in honor of my love for you
Yo M'enamori D'un Aire (I Was Swept Away by Love) A love ballad in the tradition of pre-inquisition Spain.
Arvolikos D'Almendra (Almond Orchards ) The almond trees planted are in honor of my love for you
Yo M'enamori D'un Aire (I Was Swept Away by Love) A love ballad in the tradition of pre-inquisition Spain.
All 3 tracks can be found on A New World: Kol Shira Live
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