The accordion has always played a significant role in the lives of the people from the Balkans and South Eastern Europe. In these areas, the accordion is regarded as a "peoples" instrument and is a regular part of every day life. No folk orchestra is imaginable without the accordion as it is used for weddings, dances, celebrations, etc. and is considered the "heart of the party". Even on radio and TV broadcasts the accordion is constantly heard and seen, either as part of folk orchestras or solo. This CD gives us a very nice mix of the music from that part of the world: Balkans and South-East Europe (except Swedish Suite). Countries of this areas are represented with the musical suite, containing many characteristic melodies from their national folklore. Although they are all different, they have much in common too as they share common melodies and rhythmical roots. In fact, it is the first time that I have come across such a conception for a CD, and I find it a very interesting idea. What makes it even more interesting is that it is performed by the Dutch Accordion Orchestra, conducted by Johan de With. They no doubt felt the very essence of the Eastern European Folk music and showed it to us through some fine music making. |
