The Best of Bulgarian Folk Music

A blog dedicated to the best of Bulgarian folk music. From the traditional to the modern, we explore the rich history and culture of Bulgaria through its music.

What is Bulgarian folk music?

Bulgarian folk music is known for its rich melodies and harmonies. It is often compared to the music of other Balkans countries, such as Greece, Serbia, Croatia, and Romania. Bulgarian folk music often features complex rhythms and is based on ancient folk traditions.

The Best of Bulgarian Folk Music is a compilation album that features some of the most popular Bulgarian folk songs. The album includes traditional folk songs as well as more modern interpretations of traditional songs. The album is a great way to experience the richness of Bulgarian folk music.

The history of Bulgarian folk music.

Bulgarian folk music is unique in its structure, harmony and expression. It is the product of a long and complicated historical process, during which different influences have interacted with each other to produce a distinctive musical culture.

The earliest evidence of Bulgarian folk music dates back to the ninth century, when the Bulgarian Empire was established. This music was characterised by its use of microtones andby its complex polyphony (multiple voices singing different melodies at the same time).

During the Ottoman period (15th-19th century), Bulgarian folk music underwent a number of significant changes. The most important of these was the introduction of Turkish musical elements, which gradually came to dominate the musical style. This process reached its peak in the 18th century, when Bulgarian folk music became almost completely assimilated into Turkish music.

In the 19th century, Bulgaria experienced a national Revival, which had a profound impact on all aspects of life, including music. This period saw the rediscovery and reinterpretation of many traditional folk songs, as well as the creation of new ones. Bulgarian folk music also began to influence other genres, such as classical music.

The 20th century was a turbulent time for Bulgaria, marked by two world wars and a communist dictatorship. This caused a significant decline in traditional folk music, as many musicians were persecuted or exiled. However, there was also a resurgence of interest in folk music during this time, led by composers such as Dobri Christov and Philip Koutev. Folk music continues to play an important role in Bulgarian society today.

The different styles of Bulgarian folk music.

Bulgarian folk music is varied and unique, and has been influenced by many different cultures over the years. There are many different styles of Bulgarian folk music, each with its own distinctive sound and instruments.

One of the most popular styles of Bulgarian folk music is chalga, which is a fast-paced, upbeat style that often features lyrics about love and parties. Chalga is often heard in nightclubs and restaurants, and is popular with young people. Another popular style of Bulgarian folk music is manele, which is a slower, more romantic style of music. Manele lyrics often deal with love, loss, and nostalgia, and the music is often played on the accordion.

Other styles of Bulgarian folk music include horo (a fast, energetic dance), kaba gaida (a style of music played on the bagpipe), and pirin (a more traditional style of folk music). Bulgaria also has a rich tradition of Romani (Gypsy) music, which is often very lively and upbeat.

The instruments used in Bulgarian folk music.

The bagpipe (gaida), kaval, zurna, tambura and gadulka are among the most commonly used instruments in Bulgarian folk music. The bagpipe is perhaps the most iconic and well-known of these instruments, and is commonly used in folk music across Europe. The kaval is a flute-like instrument, while the zurna is a oboe-like instrument. The tambura is a string instrument, typically played with a plectrum, while the gadulka is a bowed string instrument. These instruments are often used in ensemble to create the complex, layered sound that is characteristic of Bulgarian folk music.

The influence of Bulgarian folk music on other genres.

Bulgarian folk music has had a considerable influence on other genres, especially on chalga and turbo-folk. Chalga is a blend of Bulgarian folk music with Armenian, Greek, Ottoman Turkish, Romani and Arabic music. Turbo-folk is a blend of Bulgarian folk music with Macedonian, Serbian, Croatian and increasingly electronic dance music.