In the orthodox liturgy, the use of musical instruments is forbidden. There are two exceptions: the Armenian orthodox church tolerates a modest use of the organ and the the Ethiopian church uses drums. Because of the absence of instruments, the chorus takes the role and this can lead to some pretty elaborate polyphony. In some orthodox liturgies, there can be solo voices, giving the upper melodic line. This is the case in the orthodox music from the adriatic (mostly Serbian) which I actually bought (see below). The melodic line is without any vibrato and blends very well with the chorus. In the recordings of St John Chrysostom liturgies that I have, this upper melodic line is absent, and the polyphony develops between the different choruses. This is also the case in the examples posted by Draško.
Anyway Divna Ljudojevic voice is that of an angel and the work she has been doing with the Melodi and the dialogos ensembles is admirable. Although it is religious, this music is absolutely captivating, and when I am listening no other activities can induce any letdown of attention. Amazing.
He is a youtube portion of this CD. Its really worth it
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