On the Evidence that Confirms the Continuity of Georgian Chant Tradition

Abstract

The texts of Georgian polyphonic chants (heirmoi), written down in the 19th century using the European notational system, can be found in medieval musical manuscripts as well. Is there any connection between these two sources with at least ten century-long time difference? The article reveals nine heirmoi with the final cadences of their last clauses having similar patterns of neume symbol arrangement and similar melodies in corresponding musical scores. The correlation between the earliest and latest melody types has been established. By obtaining the exact probability of occurring this kind of correspondence the strength of the relationship has been assessed. Based on the fact, that the probability obtained proved to be very small, the hypothesis of pure chance has been rejected. The following conclusion has been drawn: it is very likely that despite the faults of the oral transmission method medieval hymns safely reached the 19th century due to the non-interrupted musical tradition.