Analysis

The Bulgarian folk music was an irreplaceable and never ending source of inspiration for one of the most prominent Bulgarian composers of the last century - Pancho Vladigerov (1899-1978). Revealing the folk music influence in three selected works by Vladigerov is the main subject of this book. Following a brief introductory part, the second chapter introduces important elements and traditions of the Bulgarian folk music discussing its rhythmical, melodic and modal aspects as well as presenting typical instruments and common folk dances. A special chapter is dedicated to the composers life. The core part offers a detailed analysis of three of the most representative works by Vladigerov: Bulgarian Rhapsody for solo piano, Op. 16 (1955), Shumen Miniatures for solo piano, Op. 29 (1934), and Song for violin and piano from Bulgarian Suite, Op. 21 (1929). Including and discussing examples from the pieces, the author explores the influence of some of the most distinctive elements of the Bulgarian folk music such as asymmetrical meters, improvisational and non-metrical styles, free melodic and structural formal development, ancient modes, abundant ornamentation and embellishments.