Language/Standard-estonian/Culture/Traditional-Music-and-Dance
Traditional Music and Dance in Estonian Culture
Estonian traditional music and dance are deeply rooted in the country's history and culture, reflecting the experiences of Estonian people over the years. Folk songs, instruments, and dance styles have played a significant role in the preservation and celebration of Estonian identity, as well as conveying messages of joy, sorrow, love, and patriotism.
Folk Songs (Rahvalaulud)
Folk songs, also known as rahvalaulud, are a fundamental element of Estonian traditional music, and they have been an essential part of Estonian culture for centuries. These songs typically express a wide range of emotions, including love, day-to-day life, and political or societal issues.
There are two types of folk songs in Estonia: the runic songs and the lyrical songs. Runic songs are ancient, dating back to pre-Christian times and were passed down through oral tradition, whereas lyrical songs are more recent and usually sung to accompany dance. Both are beloved in Estonian culture and remain popular today.
Many of the folk songs have been collected into song books and can be heard performed in national and regional celebrations and festivals such as the Estonian Song and Dance Festival, held every five years in Tallinn.
The Estonian Song and Dance Festival
The Estonian Song and Dance Festival, established in 1869, is a national celebration held every five years that draws thousands of performers and spectators from around the world. The festival is a showcase for the country's traditional music and dance, attracting hundreds of choirs and folk dancing groups.
In 2003, UNESCO officially recognized the Estonian Song and Dance Festival as a masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. According to UNESCO, it “has helped to forge a sense of national identity, perseverance and peaceful resistance which were particularly important during the Soviet occupation."
Folk Instruments (Rahvapillid)
Estonian folk music utilizes a variety of instruments. Some of the most popular include:
- Kannel - a stringed instrument somewhat similar to the traditional Finnish kantele
- Klimper - a kind of percussion instrument consisting of a wooden board with slots and bells
- Lõõtspill - a bellows-driven folk accordion
- Pill - a fipple flute traditionally made from elder or juniper wood
- Torupill - a traditional Estonian bagpipe with one drone and a chanter
Some of these instruments were originally made from the materials readily available in the Estonian landscape, such as wood and animal skins. These traditional instruments remain popular today and continue to be played by professional musicians and amateurs alike.
Folk Dance (Rahvatantsud)
Folk dance is another essential component of traditional Estonian culture, and there are many different types of dances that are popular throughout the country. These dances may be performed at cultural events, as part of regional celebrations, or simply for fun with friends and family.
Estonian folk dances date back several centuries and evolved from a combination of local and foreign influences, including Polish, Swedish, and Russian dance styles. Many of these dances tell stories or depict everyday life events, such as farming, hunting, and fishing, and they are typically performed in pairs or in groups.
One of the most famous Estonian folk dances is the “Kaerajaan” or “Barley Dance,” which involves couples dancing in a circle while holding hands. This dance is usually accompanied by live music and is often performed at weddings or other festive occasions.
The Estonian Folk Dance Festival
The Estonian Folk Dance Festival takes place biennially and brings together hundreds of dancers from across the country. It is a major event for the Estonian folk dance community and attracts both professional and amateur dancers, as well as spectators from around the world.
Conclusion
Estonian traditional music and dance are an essential part of the country's culture and identity. From the haunting melodies of the kannel to the lively rhythms of the Kaerajaan, traditional Estonian music and dance have evolved over centuries and continue to be celebrated today. By exploring and understanding Estonian traditional music and dance, students of the Estonian language can gain a deeper appreciation for the country's history, language, and culture.
Related Lessons
- Estonian language and dialects
- Estonian music and arts
- Estonian international relations
- Estonian environment and sustainability
- Estonian nature and landmarks
- Estonian history and traditions
- Estonian media and communication
- Holidays and Celebrations
- Estonian Language History