Musical message from Šariš

In this photo from 1909, a band from the region of Šariš is posing. According to the plate one of the musicians is holding, it is clear that the picture was taken somewhere in Bohemia.

Tha historical band from ŠarišTha historical band from Šariš (Source: Courtesy of B. Chovan)

The plate is written in Czech and the homeland of the musicians is stated as Uhry – meaning Great Hungary in Czech. It also implies that the band came from north-eastern Slovakia, from Šariš.

The music of Šariš is widely-known in folklore to this day.

SkryťTurn off ads
Article continues after video advertisement
SkryťTurn off ads
Article continues after video advertisement

Just as well known is the Šariš “krucena” dance as well as the dancers who put spurs on their boots to stress the rhythm – which then tingle when touching each other, or stamping.

The musical dynamics of Šariš have been created throughout centuries and the claim that the first big wave of colonisation from Wallachia is behind it seems not to be wrong. Nomadic shepherds started arriving to Spiš by the end of the 14th century and apart from cattle and sheep herds, they also brought their vivid music along.

SkryťTurn off ads

Wallachians – Ruthenians, were also joined by other inhabitants of Šariš who liked to sing. Slovaks, Ukrainians, Germans, Jews and Roma – they all have contributed their share to the unique musical style of this region.

Top stories

Peter Pellegrini and Robert Fico shake hands in parliament.

Pellegrini loses steam as polls point to Fico comeback

It seems the much-feared return of Smer is under way.


6 h
Volkswagen will make all-electric versions of the Porsche Cayenne luxury SUV.

News Digest: Volkswagen Slovakia to produce all-electric luxury SUV

LGBT+ minority could face new difficulties, a suspect is charged in the Daniel Tupý murder case.


24. mar
Filip Toška holding chard in the hydroponic Hausnatura farm.

How a Mayan doomsday prophecy took a Slovak to hi-tech agriculture

Hydroponic farm run out of former telephone exchange.


9. mar
A wolf in nature.

Three-legged wolf survives cold winters thanks to his wolf family's support

Muránska Planina Park crossed by five wolf packs.


25. mar
SkryťClose ad