A brief Introduction
A brief Introduction
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Albanian Iso-Polyphony is a form of polyphonic singing in Southern Albania. It is an ancient form of singing that is similar to that entire region that includes what is now Greece, Italy, and Turkey. It is thought to have been developed during the Thraco-Illyrian era. It is sung mostly a capella, though some times dances and instruments are incorporated. (8)
“...the songs themselves are mournful and monotonous, but they are unique examples of an ancient folk music with parts sung independently, whereas in other places popular sings are sung in harmony… The songs are generally in three parts: while two men sing lines that are largely different though entirely interconnected, the group maintains a sostenuto, similar to a pedal point.” (3)
“...the songs themselves are mournful and monotonous, but they are unique examples of an ancient folk music with parts sung independently, whereas in other places popular sings are sung in harmony… The songs are generally in three parts: while two men sing lines that are largely different though entirely interconnected, the group maintains a sostenuto, similar to a pedal point.” (3)
"Bence" Iso-polyphonic Group, from the village of Bence in the Lab region of Albania.
When and how it started?
When and how it started?
There hasn't been a specific date or time associated with the birth of this genre of music in Albania. There are ancient paintings of the cyla dyjare (an ancient Illyrian double flute) that were found in Albania and date back to the Illyrian era, representing the ancestors of Albanians. The cyla dyjare, played today as well, is the a polyphonic instruement, where a player can play two different melodies at the same time. (5)
A picture of one of the paintings found that showcases the cyla dyjare flute.
Albanians nowadays still play this ancient instrument.
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