Lithuanian culture includes a long musical tradition in both folk and classical genres.
Folk Music
Sutartines are unique Lithuanian examples of traditional music dating back hundreds of years. These usually take the form of two or three part polyphonic forms with simple melodies. Originally these would have been sung by women, particularly in the North-Western part of Lithuania with instrumental versions played by men. Expressive and with clear rhythms (typically syncopated) these songs were performed at social occasions such as weddings. A lot of the Sutartine repertoire was written down in the 19th and 20th centuries and are still performed by Lithuanian Folk groups today.
Lithuanian folk songs also include references to wars throughout their history. Documents from the 16th century refer to songs about the heroic deeds of those who fell against the Teutonic Knights. There are also many religious songs associated with particular festivals such as Easter and Christmas.
Another popular form of Lithuanian folk music is that of Work Songs. Some of these appear to be of great age and the rhythms of some are even suggestive of the rhythm of the work being done as they are sung. There are herding songs, often sung by children and though to be a way of calming the animals. Haymaking and harvesting songs, milling and spinning songs and even laundry songs have been recorded.
Instrumental dance music is also an important part of Lithuanian culture, performed using a variety of instruments including violins, clarinets and accordions. If visiting Lithuania look out for its many folk festivals held throughout the year.
Classical Music
Perhaps Lithuania’s best known composer is Mikalojus Konstantinas Ciurlionis. Born in 1875 in Varena, Ciurlionis studied piano and composition at the Warsaw Conservatory followed by a spell at the Leipzig Conservatory. Although he died in 1911 aged only 35 in 1911, his body of work includes around 200 pieces of music including th symphonic poems, “In the Forest” and “The Sea” both of which were first performed posthumously.
Vytautas Miskinis, born 1954, is a popular Lithuanian composer and choir director who has written more than 400 secular and 150 religious works.