Alersi (ალერსი) is a Georgian word meaning tenderness, affection, and loving care. It is also the title of a musical project by American singer-songwriter Kimberly Cofer, inspired by her deep and enduring connection to the country of Georgia.
Kimberly first traveled to Georgia in 2006 and went on to spend four years living and working there. The country’s extraordinary musical traditions, landscapes, and people left a lasting impression that continues to inspire her songwriting.
Currently in post-production, Alersi is a nine-song album featuring five original compositions alongside interpretations of traditional Georgian folk songs. Collaborating with Georgian vocal ensemble Trio Melodia and other Georgian musicians, Kimberly blends American folk, country, and bluegrass influences with Georgian polyphonic singing and traditional Georgian folk instrumentation to create a true “Georgian Fusion”.
The project is also expanding into Alersi Live, a proposed international concert experience bringing Georgian and American musicians together through live performances and cultural exchange.
At its heart, Alersi is a celebration of Georgian culture through the eyes of Kimberly's lived experience.
Two countries. Two musical traditions. One shared language of the heart.
Kimberly Cofer performing with Trio Melodia and guest instrumentalist Bezhan Tsintsalashvili in Mtskheta, Georgia 2026. Photo credit: Kimberly Cofer
Kimberly Cofer in traditional Khevsuretian attire in Old Tbilisi. Photo credit: Inna Davidoff
Kimberly Cofer and Trio Melodia. Photo credit: Nini Mamulidze
Kimberly Cofer at roadside churchkhela stand in Kakheti, Georgia. Photo credit: Nini Mamulaidze
Trio Melodia and Producer Bezhan Tsintsalashvili at Qartvelo Studio in Tbilisi, Georgia. Photo credit: Kimberly Cofer
Bezhan Tsintsalashvili and Vako Tsetskhladze recording traditional Georgian folk instruments for the original track "Shepherd's Maiden" at Qartvelo Studio in Tbilisi, Georgia. Photo credit: Kimberly Cofer
Vakho Tsetskhladze and Giga Chkhapelia of Trio Melodia recording a track for the album "Alersi" at Qartvelo Studio in Tbilisi, Georgia. Photo credit: Kimberly Cofer
Producer Bezhan Tsintsalashvili and Trio Melodia at Qartvelo Studio in Tbilisi, Georgia. Photo credit: Bezhan Tsintsalashvili
Kimberly Cofer promotional shot with Georgian shepherd in Gudauri, Georgia. Photo credit: Nini Mamulaidze
Kimberly Cofer promotional shot in front of Kazbegi Mountain in Stepantsminda, Georgia. Photo credit: Nini Mamulaidze
Kimberly Cofer promotional shot at Gergeti Church in Stepantsminda, Georgia. Photo credit: Nini Mamulaidze
Kimberly Cofer promotional shot at a roadside churchkhela stand in Kakheti, Georgia. Photo credit: Nini Mamulaidze
Kimberly Cofer promotional shot in traditional Khevsuretian attire in Old Tbilisi. Photo credit: Inna Davidoff
Kimberly Cofer promotional shot in traditional Khevsuretian attire in Old Tbilisi. Photo credit: Inna Davidoff