For many countries, folk dances are important cultural treasures. While a first glance at these compositions shows their clear and simple structure with a distinct musical message, a closer look reveals rhythmic curiosities, interesting harmonic shifts, and a diverse expressive range. These characteristics must have enthralled Bartók, as he undertook several research trips to collect original folk tunes. Doing so, he experienced a wealth of culture, as well as a great diversity of people and nature, which he documented musically without altering the charm and authenticity of each encounter.
Following a number of arrangements of the pieces (originally composed for piano), the Romanian Folk Dances are now available for Flute and Piano. Gergely Ittzé has captured the spirit of the Hungarian composer perfectly with his arrangements, combining an authentic treatment of the classical original with a sprinkle of contemporary elements. The resulting sound effects are a wonderful match for the old Rumanian peasant style of music.
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