LATVIA, capital Riga, is a north-eastern European country, bordering the Baltic Sea, with Lithuania to the South, Belarus and Russia to the East and Estonia to the North. Its area is 64,589 sq km (24,940 sq miles); the terrain is low and flat, with the highest point being Gaizi?kalns, 312 m (1024 ft). The population is about 2 million (2018 estimate), consisting of about 60% Latvians and Livonians, 28% Russians, as well as Belarusians, Ukrainians, Poles, Lithuanians and other small minorities. Latvian folk songs are based on the Dainas – these are one or two stanzas with a strict metre. Thematically, the Dainas range from ancient mythological themes, addressing pre-Christian deities like the goddess Sun (Saule) and the gods Moon (M?ness) or Thunder (P?rkons), to descriptions of everyday life on an agricultural farm – work, cattle, annual celebrations, and most notably, the lives of people, especially the three most important events: birth, wedding and death (including burial). These songs can be very personal, reflecting on the experiences and emotions of an individual. They also can tell mythical stories, praise the beauty of the surrounding nature or express ethical and philosophical values. The cyclic processes in nature and in human life are the framework within which the actions take place in folk songs. Many folk songs are sung on a special day: during summer solstice (J??i), Easter or Christmas. The songs mainly reflect the reality, thinking and perception of 19th century agricultural society, though in many texts much more ancient layers can be found. This collection has been carefully selected to show a great variety of folk styles, from a cappella and traditional instrumental ensembles, to rock-based and other modern arrangements. Information about each song and artist included.

These live recordings from the Kihekah Steh Powwow, Skiatook, and Oklahoma tribles capture the atmosphere of this inter-tribal gathering with drumming, singing and dancing. Tracks include "Slow War Dance Songs," "Contest Song for Straight Dancers," "Grass Dance Theme Song," "War Dance Song," and more. (ARC Music)

Classical Music

Classical Music

Playing on ancient original Russian instruments, the Balalaika Ensemble “Wolga” presents the most lovely and famous melodies from “Old Mother Russia”, including the Ukraine, Georgia (Caucasia) and other regions. The aura and interpretation of this ensemble represents an eternity of Russian history - bringing feelings of memory, contentment, happiness, security, romanticism and love. The rich repertoire of the “Wolga” Ensemble presents a musical cross-section of the traditional sounds from both sides of the Ural Mountains, including old Russian folk songs and famous liturgical melodies of the Orthodox Church as well as recent works of contemporary composers. Presenting pure folk songs from old Russia, the “Wolga” Ensemble shows the whole range of Russian musicality - unique in its expression and still really traditional. The programme is well balanced. You will notice that Russian folk music on the one hand is influenced by the melancholy of the endless taiga, tundra and steppe, and on the other hand by the lively rhythms of happy Russian country weddings and public festivals with vodka drunk from water-glasses and borscht (Russian soup based on beetroot with cabbage, meat and soured cream). There is no better way to be stimulated by music.

Ask anyone who’s seen them: you don’t forget a Saor Patrol gig. Whether it’s the mayhem of the Wacken metal festival, a sweaty smoky bar in downtown Austin, or closer to home at the Edinburgh Fringe, Saor Patrol never fail to leave an impression. The band has been variously termed ‘Tribal Rock’ and ‘The Motorhead of Folk’ but there’s a term that more closely describes the sound they’ve worked hard to purvey: Scottish Celtic Rock. Pounding drums underpin incendiary guitar and untamed pipes; Saor Patrol travel the world, leaving Scotland ringing in the ears of legions of fans: “Alba gu Brath!” Scotland forever. This special collection was chosen by the fans- the Clan- as a celebration of Saor Patrol’s music through the years.

The band Otava Yo was born spontaneously around 2003 from a group of professional folk musicians in St. Petersburg, Russia. They wanted to create new interpretations of Russian folk music, lpen to everyone with open ears, and to revive neglected tunes from bygone times. Their first album 'By the Pharmacy' was released in 2006. After experimenting for three years, the band released their second album 'Once Upon a Time' in 2009, and here their notion of Russian Beat really came to life. The next album 'Christmas,' an exquisitely poetic album of traditional Christmas songs, released in 2011, was very different. And in 2013, the album 'What are Those for Songs' further enriched their palette with wonderfully uplifting music. They've been called "modern buffoons" and the music has been described as "communal groove." Both are true. Otava Yo play their music in a vigorous manner with uninhibited humor, mixing fierily-played traditional Russian instruments with a look straight out of Gogol- one which simultaneously frightens and attracts tourists. Otava Yo shatter any preconception that Russian folk music is flat and undanceable.

The guzheng is the most recognized traditional Chinese instrument, in both it's appearance and it's sound. Throughout it's long history, playing techniques have evolved along with the instrument itself, influenced by regional culture and folk music. Some styles have also been developed by individual guzheng masters. This album showcases some important techniques and branches of different styles, including Chaochou, Shanxi, Shandong Daban, Jiangnan, Zhejiang and Henan Bantou Qu styles. This album is an extension of the album 'The Art of Chinese Harp' by Xiao Ying, which has remained a best seller since it's release in 2004. For this new album, young guzheng performer Wu Mengmeng is featured. Her passion for the instrument and the emotions she pulls from the music show in each piece.

This new release of original belly dance music from Turkey is played on traditional instruments such as the saz, kanun, darbouka, bendir, and finger cymbals. Other instruments include keyboard and violin. This release of Turkish belly dance music represents the beauty and sensuality of the cultural dance.

Classical Music

Moroccan musicians Sidi Mimoun and Ben Souda belong to the most impressive examples of the living North American traditions. Call-and-response paired with the earthy sounds of the gragebs offers a beautiful window into Moroccan musical tradition.

Classical Music

Classical Music

Compiled by John O'Regan, Gaelic songs from Ireland are presented a cappella and accompanied in traditional and modern arrangements. Also included with the CD is extensive information about the Gaelic language, the singing tradition, the artists and songs.

Classical Music