Phenotypic Recordings to Release

Vivere String Quartet’s Powerful New Album,

Prayer for Ukraine

Phenotypic Recordings proudly presents Prayer for Ukraine, a new release showcasing original compositions by three Ukrainian composers: Zoltan Almashi, Vasyl Barvinsky, and Hanna Havrylets. Expertly performed by the Vivere String Quartet, these pieces evoke the complex narratives of Ukraine’s past and present. This beautifully mastered and deeply felt album serves as a musical tribute to the resilience of the Ukrainian people amidst the hardships of war. The quartet members—Anna Bura and Dmytro Lysko (violins), Ustym Zhuk (viola) and Dmytro Nikolayev (cello)—deliver masterful performances that resonate with emotion and artistry.

WORLDWIDE RELEASE

Prayer for Ukraine


The album is introduced by two singles:


“Maria's City" (Mariupol) by Zoltan Almashi

August 9


“To Mary” by Hanna Havrylets

September 6


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Available on CD and all streaming platforms

October 4

More Info

ABOUT THE ALBUM

Among the notable pieces on the recording is“Maria’s City,” an homage to Mariupol, composed by Zoltan Almashi from a bomb shelter in Kyiv during the Russian siege. Also featured are two works by Hanna Havrylets, who tragically died from lack of medical care at the onset of the invasion, and Vasyl Barvinsky's “String Quartet,” which resonates with folk melodies and rhythms, celebrating the indomitable Ukrainian spirit.


During the album's production, the Vivere Quartet displayed unwavering dedication amid displacement, bombings, and separation from family members. The musicians bravely traveled by bus through Ukraine and Poland in order to come to the United States for their recording sessions, exemplifying their unwavering commitment to preserving Ukrainian culture.


Prayer for Ukraine stands as a beacon of courage and is a testament to the strength of all Ukrainians. Through this music, one sees the fortitude of a nation, the unshakable commitment of its artists to the beauty of their culture, and the undying flame of hope for freedom. Phenotypic Recordings is honored to support these artists in sharing their message with the world, with all proceeds from the album dedicated to Revived Soldiers Ukraine, aiding in the medical rehabilitation of Ukrainian soldiers. For direct donations, visit www.rsukraine.org.

Preview /Listen

VIVERE STRING QUARTET

Prayer for Ukraine


ZOLTAN ALMASHI

Maria's City "Mariupol" (2022)


VASYL BARVINSKY

Prayer (1912)


VASYL BARVINSKY

String Quartet (1935)


ZOLTAN ALMASHI

Carpathian Song (2019)


HANNA HAVRYLETS

To Mary (2019)


HANNA HAVRYLETS

Expressions (2004)


Produced by Lesley Robertson and Stephen Prutsman

Recorded by Leslie Ann Jones at Skywalker Sound, a Lucasfilm LTD company

Assistant Engineer: Robert Gatley

Edited by Leslie Ann Jones and Robert Gatley

Mastered by Michael Romanowski

VIVERE STRING QUARTET

The Vivere String Quartet is an internationally acclaimed Ukrainian ensemble known for bringing the music of contemporary Ukrainian composers to the world, as well as performing masterworks of the chamber music repertoire and beyond. Founded in 2010 by students of the Lviv National Music Academy, the ensemble swiftly gained national recognition, winning numerous awards and accolades. Their exquisitely lyrical style conjures stories of love, loss, darkness, light, war, and peace, with a broad palette ranging from heart-rending poignancy to explosive tension to transcendent calm. The Quartet has performed in Ukraine at the Lviv National Philharmonic, the historic Mirror Hall in the Lviv National Opera, and the prestigious “Virtuosos 40” international music festival, as well as throughout North America and Europe. The Vivere Quartet has recorded Ukrainian composer Ivan Karabyts’ String Quartet with Golka Records and the Brahms Quintet with Dzhmil Records. “Prayer for Ukraine” is their latest album.

“Freedom is not granted; it is earned through the tireless efforts of those who dare to dream of a better tomorrow or at least a 'tomorrow'. The pursuit of liberty demands our collective strength and solidarity. Freedom is a priceless endeavor, often achieved through unimaginable sacrifices and resilience. Now, more than ever, Ukraine needs your unwavering support! Together, let us amplify our voices and prayers, advocate for justice, and work towards a world where the flame of freedom burns bright for all. ”


- Vivere String Quartet


PHENOTYPIC RECORDINGS

Phenotypic Recordings is a new record label whose mission is to bring to light new and timeless music by world-class musicians, the unpublished recordings of innovative composers, and music that highlights the most important issues facing the world today. Phenotypic embraces “music with a mission”, giving special support to new compositions that tell stories from unique perspectives or shine light on timely issues. Acclaimed composer and pianist Stephen Prutsman was appointed Creative Director in 2023.

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