CASA - The Contemporary A Capella Society

KEBATAOLA, a Slovenia-based ensemble was established by its artistic director Karmina Šilec. Repertoire is drawn down from three principal areas: medieval music (chant and early polyphony), contemporary, avant-garde music and ethnical music. The ensemble is dedicated to the study and performance of the vocal repertoire in the music of our time - of the twentieth and twenty-first century. Depending on the repertoire, the ensemble adjusts its size to perform from solo to chamber or choral works. Kebataola is noted for its innovative programming which explores works from the 9th century to the forefront of the contemporary music scene. The ensemble’s interest is research: exploring new sounds, new vocal techniques and new forms of articulation. Central to the group’s artistic concept are the areas of music theatre and interdisciplinary work with electronics, video, the visual arts and literature, as well as the juxtaposition of contrasting elements found in ancient and contemporary music. Repertoire of Kebataola is designed to inspire and stretch the singers and the listeners in an active yet contemplative way, just as our own faith can be simultaneously inspired and challenged on a daily basis. In the field of ethnical music Kebatola performs chants, songs and arrangements of folk tunes from Sweden, Ukraine, Africa, and Slovenia to vigorous Balkan music. Kebataola encourages the new, surprising, and the insecure in music. Repertoire reflects intensive confrontation with the varying aesthetical facets of contemporary works, a platform for authentic performances of contemporary compositions. Its goal is to place contemporary music successfully in public cultural life and to replace the traditional hierarchical structures generally found in the everyday life of musical practice.