Bulgaria / Listening

Bulgarian music is part of the Balkan tradition, which stretches across other Danube countries as well. For example, the distinctive sounds of women’s choirs in Bulgarian folk music come partly from their unique rhythms and harmony. Songs have accompanied the Bulgarians always; in their work and play, during times of historical upsurge and in times of trial, in joy and sorrow. The traditional Bulgarian folk song is homophonic; it sounds single-voiced. Its rhythm and wealth range “from states fantastic from the point of view of a foreigner, to primitive monotony”. On all accounts, the sound has a special magic to it. It is recitative; declamation is melodious, and the verse conforms to the melody.