Speaker
Description
Let us introduce ourselves to you in our current grouping. We, the members of FSk
Skadzi Stadzi, were in different periods of our lives part of the dance and singing component of FS Jánošík - Svit, FS Vagonár Stará škola, FSk Batizovce, folklore singing groups Východňarské Šarkanice, Jaščurečky and Slovenka Poprad. In September 2023 we separated into an independent artistic ensemble and we are working, among other things, on modifying performances according to the needs of the client in accordance with the observance of folk customs and traditions. The current ensemble of FSk Skadzi Stadzi is mainly dedicated to singing works in accordance with short dance choreographies and at the same time presents folk music of different regions of Slovakia by creating complete scenic bands in time lengths as requested. At present we present our work at cultural and social events and events within the Eastern Slovakia region. The repertoire consists of songs from different regions of Slovakia, customary bands of calendar ceremonial folklore and independent singing performances in alternative costumes, which we try to gradually add to the appropriate grouping of clothing to the region according to the financial possibilities. During the CSMAG '25 conference we will present a singing group of well-known songs from the Zemplín region and an emotional and joyful group in the Rusyn dialect.
Folklore singing and costumes in Zemplín
Zemplín, a region with a rich cultural tradition, is known for its distinctive folklore expression. Traditional singing in Zemplín is characterised by a distinctive melody, strong emotional expression and archaic elements that reflect the life of the rural population. The songs often accompany various life events - weddings, harvests or religious festivals - and retain a deep connection with nature and everyday life. Zemplín costumes are equally unique - colourful, richly decorated and varied according to the individual villages. Women's costumes often include embroidery with geometric and floral motifs, rich skirts and scarves, while men's costumes are simpler but dignified, with an emphasis on the shirt and belt. Each costume carries a symbolism that reflects the particular village, region, age or social status of the wearer. The presented costumes contain elements and style of Zemplín clothing - brightly coloured skirts and lajblik, ribbons, a cap with a scarf, an embroidered apron.
Ruthenian folklore, singing and costumes
The Ruthenians, an indigenous ethnic group living mainly in northeastern Slovakia, still preserve rich folklore traditions that are an important part of their cultural identity. Ruthenian folklore is distinguished by its authenticity and strong connection with nature and spiritual life. It includes folk dances, customs, fairy tales and, above all, singing.
Traditional Ruthenian singing is multi-voiced, often melancholic and characterized by a wide range and distinctive harmony. The songs accompany life events such as births, weddings, deaths, as well as everyday work and holidays. Spiritual and Church Slavonic songs are significant and form an important part of the Ruthenian liturgical heritage. Ruthenian costumes are varied according to individual villages and regions. Women's costumes tend to be rich in embroidery, lace and colourful ribbons, complete with scarves and aprons. Men's costumes are simpler, often decorated with leather belts and embroidered shirts. Each costume carries elements of tradition, social status and religious affiliation. The presented costumes contain elements and style of Ruthenian clothing - a blue-printed skirt, a white shirt, a cross scarf with tassels, a flowered scarf to cover the head.
It is a tradition in Slovak folklore that a woman, after going through the marriage ceremony, was grafted by married women, thus being admitted to the status of a married woman and assigned the duties of a married woman. A married woman had to wear a cap and a scarf, and her hair had to be hidden as a symbol that she was already taken and did not show her beauty. In many areas of Slovakia, this ceremony is still a tradition and part of wedding receptions. The man's feathers were removed from behind his hat or the colour of the ribbons on his hat was changed, which also depended on the particular region.
