10 folk music ensembles of the peoples of Russia (VIDEOS)
From the graceful movements of the Kalmyk steppe to the mesmerizing dances of the Chukotka tundra, these troupes introduce unique folk culture through the power of song and dance!
1. Song & Dance ensemble of the Republic of Tatarstan
Elegant melodies, complex rhythms and graceful movements that retell the traditions of the Tatar people – this is all used in the work of the ensemble of the State Philharmonic in Kazan, which was founded in 1937.
Their performances are based on folk stories: The summer festival of ‘Sabantuy’, tales about Kazan, legends of the gardens of Bulgar, wedding rituals and much more.
2. Chukchi-Eskimo ensemble ‘Ergyron’
Translated from Chukchi, the name means ‘dawn’. The ensemble is very colorful, which, in turn, represents the art of the peoples of Chukotka. Their music magically transports you to the world of reindeer herders and sea hunters. The group's hallmark is the imitation of the sounds of the tundra and the mimicry of the movements of animals and birds.
3. Dance ensemble ‘Alan’
The North Ossetian dance ensemble was founded in 1938 in Vladikavkaz. The Alans are the ancestors of modern Ossetians. The troupe tells of their heritage: stories of the harsh beauty of the mountains, chivalric honor and hospitality.
4. Folk dance ensemble of the Republic of Bashkortostan
This ensemble brilliantly presents the rich culture of the Bashkir people: from epic tales to lyrical songs and lively dances. It was founded in 1939 by leading artist Fayzi Gaskarov and, today, the ensemble is named after him. The sound of the ‘kurai’ folk instrument gives a special flavor to the performances.
5. Song and dance ensemble of the Udmurt Republic ‘Italmas’
Named after a flower, this ensemble was founded in 1936 and became a symbol of Udmurt culture. Its repertoire includes ritual songs, circle dances and dances that tell of rural life.
6. Buryat national song and dance theater ‘Baikal’
Their performances are a mystical and mesmerizing spectacle. The numbers show off shamanic rituals and epic tales, as well as scenes from everyday life. The company consists of a ballet troupe, vocalists and the National Orchestra of the Republic of Buryatia.
7. Song and dance ensemble of Kalmykia ‘Tulpan’
The ‘tulpan’ (‘tulip’) is one of the first spring flowers of the Kalmyk steppe and considered by locals to be a symbol of life. That’s why the national ensemble got this name. It presents the art of the Kalmyks, retelling folk epics through music. ‘Tulpan’ was founded in 1937 in Elista.
8. Koryak national dance ensemble ‘Mengo’
‘Mengo’ means ‘morning’ in the Koryak language. The first artists of the troupe, when formed back in 1965, were talented young men and women from Kamchatka villages. They knew well the rituals of their ancestors and ancestral melodies. Thus, they managed to create a unique musical ensemble that immerses you in the world of the Far East. In their performances, you can hear the sound of shamans' drums, throat singing and the imitation of animal and bird calls.
9. Dance ensemble ‘Kabardinka’
This is an outstanding ensemble of Adyghe (Circassian) folk dance. Founded in 1933, ‘Kabardinka’ is known for its large-scale productions and virtuoso dance tricks.
10. Chuvash State Song and Dance Ensemble
This ensemble, founded in 1924, is famous for its polyphonic choir, which performs complex folk songs. The ensemble's dances are very rhythmic, emotional and often have a playful or ritual character.
