Tradition Meets Innovation: Balkan Folk Music in Classical Guitar Chamber Composition

Vasiliki Kydoniati

About this exposition

As a Greek guitarist, I have always found inspiration in exploring Balkan music. However, the representation of this music is almost entirely by traditional folk music and very rare by classical or contemporary music. This research explores the roots and elements of traditional Balkan music and its influence on guitar with the aim of composing a new contemporary piece for guitar trio based on a traditional Greek song "To Margoudi kai o Alexandris.". In order to recognize Balkan music on guitar, first we have to define what exactly Balkan music is. The first chapter is about a deep examination of Balkan folk music, including its geographical boundaries, rhythmic and melodic patterns, characteristic instruments, and the role of improvisation. These elements are key to understanding the region's unique musical identity. Continually we identify Balkan elements in classical music and guitar, allowing us to see Balkan music as an inspiration for classical composition. Finally, with this knowledge, the study further delves into the creation of new guitar music, with a collaboration with the composer Giorgos Andrikogianopoulos to adapt the Greek folk song To Margoudi ki o Alexandris into a guitar trio piece. A new composition blending contemporary and modern elements emerged from an analysis of the song’s structure and style. By examining all of these elements, the study shows us the complex relationship between tradition and innovation and provides fresh insights into the use of folk music in modern guitar composition and performance.

type	research exposition
keywords	balkan, folk music, Classical guitar, composition, Chamber music
date	01/03/2025
published	14/07/2025
last modified	14/07/2025
status	limited publication
copyright	Vasiliki Kydoniati
license	CC BY-NC-ND
url	https://www.researchcatalogue.net/view/3461453/3461454
published in	KC Research Portal
portal issue	3. Internal publication

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Tradition Meets Innovation: Balkan Folk Music in Classical Guitar Chamber Composition (2025)

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