Various Latvia Artists
If you thought the Scots were the only Northern Europeans to play bagpipes, this recording will surprise you. Some of the most brilliant examples of bagpipe music ever recorded in Latvia are included in the album. You will hear traditional numbers as well as some new compositions created especially for this collection.
"The notes to Dudas Latvija include an engraving from 1550 which depicts the Latvian bagpipe and hints at how far back peasants from this region enjoyed the instrument's enchanting drone and the bacchanalia that frequently accompanied its playing. In time, playing the instrument was restricted, even prohibited, and by the 20th century, the practice had all but died out. The Latvian bagpipe, "dudas" among other names, had its bag made from sheep-, dog-, or catskin (also seal stomachs!). A dudas revival began in the 1970s, and now both performers and instrument makers are active in Latvia. Dudas Latvija showcases seven remarkable pipers—Austris Grasis, Valdis Muktupavels, Maris Muktupavels, Maris Jansons, Maris Jekabsons, Andris Kapusts, & Raigo Stalts. The result is exciting, if a bit uneven, and will leave you needing to pick your own favorites from among the tracks. Some cuts (e.g. "Vaidi," "Lineni muni lineni") have that gut-tugging drone and wildly abandoned choral singing that will drag you into centuries gone by. All are engaging and provide stylistic differences." - Dick Dorsett, RootsWorld
Listen to the "Call of the Bagpipes"
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