Folk dances and music in Latvia We all came here from somewhere” Lifelong Learning Multirateral School Project “We all came here from somewhere”

 They are dances performed at social functions by people with little or no professional training, often to traditional music or music based on traditional music.  They are not designed for public performance or the stage, although traditional folkdances may be later arranged and set for stage performances.  New dancers often learn informally by observing others and/or receiving help from others.

 Latvian folk dances has its origins in the traditions of the Baltic tribes, that arrived in the Baltic region approximately 2000 years BC.  Dances show day-to-day life of the rural communities, for example, sowing, harvesting, fishing, as well as specific events - marriage, birth.  There are dances to celebrate the changes of the seasons.

 Over time, the folk dances have been formalized into choreographed presentations based on traditional dance patterns.

 Dancers wear folk costumes made of wool and linen.

 The woman's marital status is shown by her headdress.

In each part of Latvia there are different costumes. KurzemeZemgale

Vidzeme Latgale

 Most dances are performed with a partner in four or more couple formations.  During the dance dancers often switch partners – it gives an opportunity for them to be acquainted with others.

Steps are based on the polka or gallop motives.

 First , Riga – 45 choirs and 1019 participants.  the dance element was added.  There are two kinds of this festival – adults and school children and youth.  They take place every 5 years with two years difference.

was bestowed the title of "Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity" by UNESCO.

It can boast over people in national dress singing at the same time and place!

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