"Who's afraid of 'New Slovak Music'?" by Zuzana Vilikovska
December 3 2012
Fans of traditional classical music often shun contemporary classical music; however, this new music offers something for both classic and contemporary music lovers as demonstrated by the performances in the New Slovak Music Festival. The festival offers widespread genre and selection for any listener over a period of seven days. The monumental closing event featured performances, both chamber and symphonic, that presented 50 works by Slovak composers. The festival was dedicated to renowned Slovak composer Ilja Zeljenka. Pieces by Zeljenka and those dedicated to him were played in the final concert along with compositions composed to honor Slovak premieres. Those who came to get a taste of contemorary Slovak music had much to choose from. The festival was the perfect opportunity to present modern Slovak composers to international music connoisseurs.
The Slovak music festival is a wonderful outlet for the community to interact with each other and thrive through entertainment and music. Music defines a culture, and it is through music in which generations can connect and learn from each other. As time presses onward, so does preference and style. But music can bind generational gaps. Music can heal. Music can soothe the soul. And as seen through the Slovak Music Festival, music is fun!
Music is culture. Just like regions around the globe, Slovakia has its own style and individual uniqueness within its music. As music changes, so do lyrics. But the heart and core of Slovak music remains. It burns and lives as the country thrives. Slovak music is a powerful tool in understanding Slovak culture.