A Rich Tradition of Singing
Singing is an important part all of the Baltic cultures. Sing played an important role in ancient pagan rituals and magical practices. Records of traditional Estonian song were found as evidence in seventeenth century witch trials (Wolverton, 22). Today choral singing is still an important part of Estonian culture. Every town has a choir that performs at a very high level. Children are taught music and encouraged to participate. Local and national song and dance festivals are important parts of Estonian song tradition.
Characteristics of Estonian Folk SongIn Estonia, singing was customarily done by women and instrumental music was performed by men. Estonian folk songs are can be categorized in two groups: ancient folk or Runic (Runo) songs (regivärsid) and the rhyming folk songs of more recent times. The two groups are musically distinct. Runo songs belong to the Balto-Finnic culture and the newer rhymed folk songs are akin to the European folksong of 18th and 19th centuries. Religious folk songs do not exist in significant numbers, although devotional songs similar to the Lutheran chorale exist (Tall, 492).
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LinksFurther Reading
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Ancient or Runic Songs (regivärsid)
Singing in the Setu Region
(Wolverton, 22) |
Rhyming folk songs
(Wolverton, 22) |
Listening Examples
Included here are two examples of Runic singing. (www.singingrevolution.com)
Terehtamise Laul
Notice call and response alternating with chorus at the ends of phrases.
Kuld on Jaanud Jalgedesse
Terehtamise Laul
Notice call and response alternating with chorus at the ends of phrases.
Kuld on Jaanud Jalgedesse