Today we proudly present collections of Hungarian folksongs channelled by the minds of two legendary composers: Béla Bartók and Zoltán Kodály.
Volume 1: Bartók | Volume 2: Kodály
Sheet music for these classic collections is available on IMSLP. Bartók | Kodály
Ma büszkén mutatjuk be a magyar népdalok gyűjteményeit, melyeket két legendás zeneszerző elméje közvetít. Bartók Béla és Kodály Zoltán.
Volume 1: Bartók | Volume 2: Kodály
A klasszikus gyűjteményekhez tartozó kotta elérhető az IMSLP-n. Bartók | Kodály
Folk songs are an essential part of Hungary’s cultural heritage. Many Hungarian composers have been deeply interested in preserving and incorporating these folk melodies into their classical compositions.
When it comes to the world of classical music, few names shine as brightly as Béla Bartók and Zoltán Kodály. These composers not only left an indelible mark on the world of composition but also made it their mission to preserve and celebrate the rich tapestry of folk music. One legacy of this mission is their arrangements of Hungarian folk songs for piano and voice, a testament to their dedication to preserving melodies.
In 1904, a “miraculous circumstance”, as he himself described it, changed the course of Béla Bartók’s musical journey. While attending a folk dance performance in a Hungarian village, he was introduced to the enchanting world of Hungarian folk music. Bartók was captivated by the authenticity, beauty, and emotional depth of the folk songs he heard. It was a turning point that would shape his future and musical contributions.
Bartók embarked on a mission to collect, transcribe, and preserve Hungarian, Slovak and Romanian folk songs. His field recordings and transcriptions laid the foundation for his arrangements: a bridge between the raw, expressive qualities of folk music and the highly formalised world of classical composition, seamlessly blending the authenticity and richness of traditional folk melodies with the traditions of the art song format. The result is a captivating musical journey that brings to life the heart and soul of Hungarian culture.
These arrangements have become a cornerstone of Hungarian classical music and continue to be celebrated and performed by musicians worldwide. Whether you’re a fan of singing challenging classical music or have a deep appreciation for the simplicity and beauty of folk traditions, these songs offer a unique and captivating experience.
If you haven’t had the opportunity to explore the world of Hungarian folk songs arranged for piano and voice by Bartók and Kodály, with the launch of a complete set of accompaniments on the YOURACCOMPANIST website, now is the perfect time. We invite you to discover the “miraculous encounter” that ignited Bartók’s passion and be transported to the enchanting world of Hungarian folk music. It’s a journey worth embarking on, one that connects you to the very heart and soul of Hungary’s musical heritage.
Sing it today
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