In September 2023, the Ukrainian independent platform Open Opera Ukraine made a real breakthrough on the world music scene. Their project, dedicated to the Ukrainian Baroque, won first place in the category "Heritage Project of the Year" at the prestigious REMA Awards.

An album that revived the past

The album, which contains the works of the outstanding Ukrainian composer Mykola Dyletskyi and other unknown authors of the 18th century, became a real discovery. The "Partes" vocal ensemble, specializing in baroque music, created a unique atmosphere, performing compositions in the authentic space of the St. Cyril's Church of the "Sofia Kyivska" National Reserve.

A game-changing event

The program director and co-founder of Open Opera Ukraine, Anna Hadecka, spoke about the significance of this victory:

"Never before has Ukrainian music been included in this category and has not been so highly appreciated. The REMA Award is something like an "Oscar" in the field of early music. It also means that a large number of people, experts all over the world will learn about Ukrainian Baroque, about Mykola Dyletskyi, and perhaps they will be more interested in the bright Ukrainian subjective voice in the realm of early music."

Recognition in the international arena

REMA is an early music network in Europe with over 160 participants from around the world, including performers, composers and researchers. The award from REMA recognizes innovators in the field of early music once every two years. The Ukrainian project, reflecting the versatility and vision of the modern early music sector, deservedly received this recognition.

What's next?

Will this victory become a new milestone for Ukrainian music in the international arena? Many experts believe so. In the meantime, listeners can already enjoy the album, which is available on popular music platforms: Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube Music. This project opens new horizons for Ukrainian culture and encourages the world to learn more about our musical heritage.

Editor: Yana Davydiuk