ABSTRACT
Modern-day Belarus lies at the eastern threshold of Europe. The ethnic foundation of Belarus is defined by the ancient settlements of the eastern Slavic tribes: Kryvichans, Drehavichans, and Radzimichans. The song tradition of Belarus can divided into music reflecting three main historical periods. The oldest songs are found in seasonal and family-ritual cycles. A second set of material—nonritual songs—developed between 1400 and 1700. A third set developed as an urban style in the nineteenth century. Songs of the peasant uprising are unique in their energy and intensity, and love lyrics are characterized by a wealth of psychological nuances. Authentic Belarusan musical folklore performed by amateurs or professionals has exerted a noticeable influence on Belarusan musical life. In the nineteenth century, a third historical style of Belarusan song developed from urban folklore. Belarusan and eastern Slavic religious chants influenced several song genres, including festive ceremonial table-side comic and soldier songs and revolutionary anthems.
