Potpourri of melodies and music from the mountain region of Tusheti in Eastern Georgia on Salamuri and Panduri.

Salamuri - Shepherd's flute with clear and very soft sound, producing elaborate melodies. It generally has seven finger-holes at the front and one at the back. The sound can change by varying the force of blowing: from tender and soft to loud and penetrating. Sometimes two salamuris (in different tuning) are played simultaneously by one musican.

Panduri - Three-stringed fretted lute with oval body. It is played by strumming or plucking and originates from Eastern Georgia.

Folk-lore ensemble ''Kolkheti'' was created in 1980 under initiative is state philharmonic society. The idea of it`s creation belongs to Givi Shanidze who has been a permanent soloist and manager of the ensemble. Givi Shanidze, Nugzar Psuturi, Gia Psuturi, Giorgi Akhrakhadze, Jemal Akhrakhadze, Aleksi Goderdzishvili and Valerian Gatenashvili are thoroughly talented musicians. Besides singing, each of them masters Georgian national instruments, as well as guitar and keyboard instruments. Because of the ensemble is touring.
In February, 1998 the ensemble ''Kolkheti'' was conferred a supreme honor of state. Manager of the ensemble Givi Shanidze was rewarded by Order of Honor, the other members by Medals of Honor.  Ensemble ''Kolkheti'' has given concerts in all regions of Georgia, as well as in all foreign countries.

Ensemble Kolkheti - Tushetian Dance Melodies

Tornike Mtiuli