Symbolic Functions of the Belarusian Duda (Bagpipe) in Narratives of Modern Urban Bagpipers

Leshkevich, Alena

doi:0137-4079

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Symbolic Functions of the Belarusian Duda (Bagpipe) in Narratives of Modern Urban Bagpipers Leshkevich, Alena

Object structure

Symbolic Functions of the Belarusian Duda (Bagpipe) in Narratives of Modern Urban Bagpipers

Leshkevich, Alena

Institute of Archaeology and Ethnology Polish Academy of Sciences

ethnography -- journal ; Belarus ; bagpipe ; duda ; traditional music revival

This article analyses the symbolic functions of the Belarusian bagpipe in the narratives of modern urban bagpipers and attempts to periodise of the revival of the instrument, that is connected with those functions. In the narratives of bagpipers in mass media, social media and private conversations, some common motifs concerning their musical instrument are observed. I call them symbolic functions to separate them from the practical function of the bagpipe – to play music. The modern urban tradition of playing the duda (bagpipe) has only an indirect continuity with village musicians. Since the 1970s, the bagpipe tradition has been revitalised. Different symbolic functions of the Belarusian bagpipe were relevant at various stages of its revival. This article analyses the following symbolic functions: the bagpipe as a national symbol, as an artefact, as another art project, as an object of research, as an instrument for entertainment and for political protest, as well as an object of emotional attachment.

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