The Magic Sounds of Bulgarian Folklore Music
Source: Canva
Bulgarian folklore music is a national treasure, which with its unique character reflects the identity of the Bulgarian people and carries the spirit of Bulgarian life and culture.
Bulgaria is founded in 681. During these 13 centuries, there have been many changes. The Bulgarian people went through many twists and turns, even in some periods Bulgaria has not been visible on the map of Europe for centuries. Despite the difficulties, it withstands the challenges of time, preserving the Bulgarian identity.
Bulgarians still believe that it is the rich cultural heritage of the nation that has preserved their people all these years. In times of trial, it was precisely the songs and dances, as well as the religion, that motivated them and united them in the pursuit of nationwide causes. Proof of this is found in the lyrics of the songs themselves. They are intertwined stories from historical events, cultural customs, and social traditions.
The formation of the style of music began in the 20th century, but at the heart are rural folk songs created centuries before that time.
Bulgaria is divided into several ethnographic areas, each of which has its peculiarities in terms of song-dance folklore. Generally, the folklore regions in Bulgaria are seven.
- Northern region - includes the Danube Plain and the northern part of the Balkan Mountains;
- Dobrudzhanski region - Dobrudzha area
- Shopski region – around the capital of Sofia
- Thracian region - Thrace (Includes areas around the cities of Pazardzhik, Plovdiv, Stara Zagora, Haskovo, Yambol, Sliven, Burgas and others.);
- Strandzha - the territory of Strandzha Mountain;
- Macedonian - Macedonia District (Except in Bulgaria it is also located in Greece and Northern Macedonia);
- Rhodope region - the area covers the Rhodope Mountain.
Source: Canva
The music is known for its interesting melodic assortment and expressive vocal techniques. Each region of Bulgaria has its specific musical traditions, which are reflected in the variation of rhythm, tunes, and texts. It uses a variety of traditional tools, such as gadulka, kaval, tambourine, dummy, duduk, and more. Vocal performances are also essential and often include polyphony, which gives the music a unique character and sound.
It is the unique sound that affects the music culture not only in Bulgaria but worldwide as well. Many performers and music groups are inspired by Bulgarian musical traditions and include elements of them in their works. Elements from the Bulgarian folklore sound in famous films and commercials of large companies.
Below you can watch a video by a famous female chorus. It was a concert on a scale that I watched live.
And here is another video from the same concert made by me.
Have you ever listened to Bulgarian folk music live, what is your opinion? If not, would you go to a concert like this? Hit the “Reply” Button below and share your thoughts with the community!
Reneta, OLS Community Manager – Bulgarian