The annual concert of the St. Giorgi Mtatsmindeli University of Chanting took place on July 4 at the National Palace in Tbilisi, featuring performances by university students and graduates of the institution’s first short-term certification program.
The event was attended by clergy, representatives of the Georgian Parliament, cultural figures, and invited guests. Among those present was Archpriest Andria Jagmaidze, Head of the Public Relations Service of the Georgian Patriarchate, who conveyed the blessings of the Patriarchal Locum Tenens and congratulated students, faculty members, and co-founders on the successful completion of the academic year.
In his remarks, Archpriest Andria recalled the words spoken by Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II of All Georgia at the founding of the University of Chanting: “We are beginning a very great undertaking. I am confident that the choir directors we educate will establish choirs throughout Georgia, and all of Georgia will glorify the Lord.”
He noted that the late Patriarch’s vision has become a reality over the years and praised the university for faithfully carrying out its mission. He also expressed gratitude to the institution’s founder, Vano Chkhartishvili, and to the head of administration, Nana Gotua, for their contributions to its development.
Greetings were also offered by Giorgi Gabunia, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Culture, and Vano Chkhartishvili, founder and chairman of the university’s supervisory board.
Marking the institution’s 20th anniversary, Nana Gotua emphasized the significance of the annual concert, describing it as another success for the students and a testament to the preservation of Georgia’s sacred musical heritage.
“Our treasure, the legacy left to us by great individuals, is in safe hands—in the hands of a generation that acquires knowledge at the University of Chanting and will pass it on to future generations,” she said.
At the conclusion of the event, certificates of appreciation and awards were presented to members of the university community in recognition of their achievements and their contributions to the institution’s success during the academic year.
