Belarusian folk dances are the soul of their people

Eastern Europe - one of the parts of our planet, which is famous for a very distinctive culture. The countries that are part of it have long been united by one big state. But this did not stop them from developing their culture independently of each other. Among these countries is Belarus.

Belarusian folk dances and songs are an integral part of the national consciousness of this country. Like in many other cultures, they are closely related to the calendar of national holidays and family celebrations. These include weddings, homelands, carols and others.

Excursion to the history

Belarusian folk dance was formed along with the entire Belarusian culture since the XIV century. And the sources of folk dances were even more ancient all-Russian rituals. Through the movement, the Belarusians gave their entire character and traits characteristic of these people. They show how they feel life and its beauty, its temperament and inspiration.

Seasons also influenced the appearance of new dances. Belarusian folk dances are correlated with the brightest celebrations of the season. This is due to the nature of the activities of the ancient Belarusians, namely, with agriculture. For example, holidays such as wreckers and daughters, were the reasons for the festivities in the fall. In the winter, the main motives for dancing were carols and a holy evening. At the Shrovetide Belarusians not only baked pancakes, but also danced the whole village. In the summer, the Belarusian folk dance was honored almost every day, as young guys and girls were not averse to dancing and without reason. And the main holiday of the summer was Kupala.

There are very few solitary dances in Belarus. Their main number - paired, massive dances.

Belarusians danced under any instruments that were just at hand. And since this people is very talented, there were a lot of such instruments: from the violin to the tambourine, from the cymbals to the accordion and so on. Well, how can you do without a song? Singing was most loved by ditties, so-called chants. This gave even more mischief to the dances, and they turned into small humorous competitions.

Honored recognition

Belarusian folk dances for many years existed exclusively in rural areas. They were considered peasants and unworthy of the upper strata of society. And it was only at the beginning of the 19th century that Belarusian dances were popularized. The main role in this played Ignat Buynitsky. He collects his troupe and travels with her throughout the country.

These people showed how the folk dance of the Belarusians can be emotional and temperamental. The popularity of this theater only grew, which gave them the opportunity to be invited to Poland and St. Petersburg and already there to represent the identity of their people.

But Buynitsky did not stop there, and in 1907 he became the founder of the Belarusian folk theater. The role of the director and actor belonged to him and Buinitsky himself. He managed to convey all the colors of folk dance, while showing his beauty and characteristic features of the people.

Belarusian folk dances have many kinds. The most popular are "Lyavonikha", "Yanka" and "Kryzhachok".

Lyavonikha's favorite dance

As already mentioned above, most Belarusian dances are paired. "Lyavonikha" is no exception. The song of the same name is the basis of the dance, since it arose precisely on the basis of the dialogue that takes place between Lyavonikha and Lyavon, and the dance is conducted around them. The number of participants is not limited, if only you could find a couple. The dance is very dynamic and impetuous, but uncomplicated, which brought him popularity. Usually the Belarusians put on their homespun clothes, performing it. "Krutiha" - the second name of this dance, which went from the main movement - the spinning of pairs.

Kryzhachok

This unusual name of the dance was derived from the main form, which determines the construction of dancers, namely from the cross and the transitions of movements crosswise. Popularity "Kryzhachok" is not inferior to "Lyavonikhie."

Interesting is that this dance in some parts of Belarus is called more abbreviated - "Kryzhak". In general, the wader in this country is called a wild drake. Therefore, in dance people try to imitate the movements of this bird. Another variation of the name is "Circle", and the movements here are more eager for a circle.

Yanka Polka

"Yanka" is a Belarusian folk dance, which borrowed the main movements from the people's polka. It is performed in the same way as "Lyavonikha", only for a certain song, namely the Belarusian folk "Yanka". The pace of movement is moderately fast. They are carried out with enthusiasm and merriment typical for Belarusians.

Dance is not an exception, it is a pair. All movements pass in a circle. The couple actively tap the rhythm of the dance with their feet and swirl to the music.

Belarusian folk song, dance are important elements of the culture of this people. They complement each other and are closely intertwined.