Polina Shepherd (Skovoroda) was born in Tomsk, Russia. Now an internationally renowned singer, she brings the songs of the Steppes and the Shtetl up to date with passion and haunting soul. Her singing, based on traditional forms, is deeply rooted in east European, Jewish and Russian folk. Growing up in Tatarstan has also placed her close to Islamic ornamentation, which can also be heard in her unique vocal style.