Koutev Bulgarian National Ensemble

Created in 1951 by Philip Koutev, the Bulgarian National Ensemble performs distinctive Balkans music, featuring strong female voices and traditional instruments such as the gadulka (a bowed fiddle), kaval (end-blown flute), and gaida (bagpipes). The music is characterized by complex rhythms and harmonies, as seen on Track 4, “Dumai, Zlato (Speak Up, Zlata),” a beautiful and haunting example of a cappella choral singing, and Track 5, an instrumental medley. Liner notes include descriptions of the performers, instruments, and dances, with a translation of each song title.