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MUSIC AND IDENTITY



Bulgarian musical instruments
Lent by Yves Moreau

Video Excerpt

  Bulgarian musical instruments / Photo: Y. Moreau

     

The instrumental music of Bulgaria is used to accompany traditional dances at weddings and popular celebrations. The caval flute is the shepherds' favourite instrument, and it is played with the gaida bagpipes and the gadulka fiddle during outdoor celebrations. Bulgarian vocal music is accompanied by these instruments, whose repertoire is inspired by dance songs.

Today, many festivals are devoted to Bulgarian music, and musicians from every part of the country participate. The best singers and musicians are heard at these festivals, where one can see the most beautiful traditional costumes of the various regions.

The creation of a state musical ensemble for traditional dances and songs promoted the learning of the traditional forms of Bulgarian music, which have undergone many transformations over the past few decades.

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