<I>Kobzar</I> on CD

Hitherto one could learn about Taras Shevchenko’s work from books, television and radio programs, or museum excursions. Now we can listen to his creations on the Kobzar compact disk, which has been issued through the efforts of the National Radio Company of Ukraine. This unprecedented project represents a sound first edition of Shevchenko’s works from 1840. Exquisite recordings by both old and modern Ukrainian reciters are collected on the CD complimented by a booklet reproducing first edition of the Kobzar.

Today Ukrainian Radio possesses unmatched opportunities for implementing such projects. Its funds contain over 200,000 hours of records of both fiction and nonfiction works. Viktor Nabrusko, president of the National Radio Company of Ukraine, said on this occasion: “The Kobzar is a special path to the spiritual inner sanctum in every Ukrainian soul. We [Ukrainian Radio] have unique ensembles including symphony and folk orchestras, adult and children’s choirs. Above all, we have not only the creative potential but also the ability to record such projects.”

To date, two more CDs were issued timed to coincide with the centennial of outstanding Ukrainian opera singer, Mykhailo Hryshko: “Opera Fragments” and “Ukrainian Songs and Romances.” Immediate plans of Ukrainian Radio include the original version of “The Wonder World of Poltava Song” from Borys Liatoshynsky’s Third Symphony, and Ukrainian folk tales for children on CD.