Adapted from Tutarchela's website:
The women and girl's choir Tutarchela was established at the beginning of 2004 in Rustavi, under the guidance of Tamar Buadze. The choir consists of 13 singers, most of whom have graduated from Tbilisi State Conservatory's choir conducting department. The group performs European and classic songs, folk songs of different countries as well as folk songs from all regions of Georgia.
In the time since its formation, the choir has learned and performed a wide repertoire in various genres, and this, in addition to the rarity of a women's choir performing traditionally men's music, makes Tutarchela stand out in its originality. Much of their Georgian folk song repertoire as a rule is sung only by men, and in fact, Tutarchela is the first Georgian choir to challenge male singers with this non-traditional approach to traditional music. Their rich low voices are tremendous, constantly surprising and thrilling the listener. Notably, such repertoire is mainly represented by the “manly” songs, which require a great deal of energy and emotion.
Much of their repertoire is Lazic folk songs arranged by Tamar Buadze. Lazeti once belonged to Georgia but currently is in Turkey’s territory. To collect forgotten, old songs from Lazeti and translate them into a Georgian traditional folk style was a great experiment and yet Tamar Buadze has had tremendous success.
Tutarchela recorded a CD just after 5 months of its inception, which includes 23 folk songs from all parts of Georgia.
Repertoire includes works written by Georgian composers, Georgian folk songs, motets, madrigals and Renaissance pieces. In addition, the group has sung Mozart, Pergolezy and Brahms. Tutarchela has participated in many cultural events in Georgia and abroad.
The majority of the members can also play Georgian folk instruments, including panduri, chonguri, and doli.