About Camenae de Cymru

“Music gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything” (Plato)

Dedicated to Baroque and Romantic Music

Camenae de Cymru is a musical ensemble based in Cardiff, specializing in the enchanting melodies of the Baroque and Romantic periods. Our commitment to musical excellence and passion for sharing the beauty of classical music drives everything we do.

The Tale of Camenae

Our name is inspired by the Camenae who were deities in Roman mythology associated music, poetry, and healing. Carmenta, the chief goddess of the Camenae, derives her name from the Latin 'carmen', which refers to a magical spell, oracle, or song, and is the origin of the English word 'charm'. Carmenta embodies two aspects: Postvorta, representing the past, and Antevorta, symbolizing the future. 

We firmly believe in the therapeutic power of music and singing. Our goal is to bridge the gap between history and the future through our music, aiming to enchant, heal, and uplift the spirit.

The Story Behind the Ensemble's Creation

The Camenae de Cymru group was established in Cardiff in 2020 by Kristina Bitina, Nichola Bojczuk, and Alexei Zhurov.

Kristina Bitina is a professional opera singer known for her rich contralto voice. She holds a Master of Music in Performance and Teaching from Latvia and honed her vocal skills at Saint Petersburg Conservatoire. She performed across Europe for many years. Kristina relocated to Scotland in 2005 and later to Wales in 2010, where she continues to captivate audiences with her talent.

For many years, Kristina dreamed of assembling a group of professional musicians with a fresh and creative view of classical music. In 2019, she met Nichola Bojczuk and Alexei Zhurov, who shared her passion for music, supported Kristina's idea and helped her bring it to life.

Nichola, a talented poet and choral singer with a diverse background, has experience playing the piano and oboe. She has participated in various concerts with Opera Situ and Opera Mint Wales. Alexei, originally from Russia, is a mathematician who has been living in Wales since 2001 and has worked for Cardiff University. He learned to play the button accordion in childhood and has a deep love for music.

Camenae de Cymru invites and unites musicians from various corners of the world to share the gift of classical music with audiences far and wide. With a diverse blend of talents hailing from Wales, England, and beyond, each performance is a masterpiece of harmony and passion. Together, these exceptional individuals have graced the stage over 30 times in South Wales and England, captivating hearts with their unparalleled skill and artistry. Let their dedication and talent ignite a spark within you to pursue your own dreams and aspirations.

Follow the Performers menu item to see the list of the musicians who have performed with Camenae de Cymru over the years and find more information about them.

 

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