The enduring appeal of regional folk music
Although it may seem that folk songs belong to the past, in Czechia they are still very much alive. They are sung at celebrations, feasts, harvest festivals, and family gatherings. Each region has its own melodies and its own stories, from lyrical love ballads to cheerful drinking songs.
When the cimbalom rings out and petticoats whirl to the rhythm
Folk music has a unique ability to connect generations. In many regions of Bohemia and Moravia, songs and dances are passed down from one generation to the next, performed in traditional costumes.
Each region has its own costume colours and motifs shaped by history and local traditions. These garments are hand-made, requiring many hours of work. The starched shirts, petticoats and ribbons are brought out on special occasions and are carefully preserved as family heirlooms. A folk costume is not just a piece of clothing; it is a symbol of region, family, and tradition.
The core of a cimbalom band usually includes:
- Cimbalom – the centerpiece. A large, table-like instrument with strings struck by small wooden mallets. It gives the music its shimmering, ringing character, both rhythmic and melodic at once.
- Violins – the leading voice. The first violin carries the melody, often richly ornamented, while a second violin supports it.
- Viola (kontra) – used in a non-classical style, playing rhythmic chords like a steady heartbeat beneath the tune.
- Double bass – the anchor. It keeps the tempo grounded, often with a slightly percussive touch suited to dance music.
- Accordion – more common in Bohemia, able to carry both melody and harmony.
There is nothing random about this combination. It is a sound shaped over centuries—built to fill village squares, cut through laughter and clinking glasses, and carry across fields at dusk.
To the foreign ear, this music can be surprisingly energetic: rhythmic, melodic, and often accompanied by dance. Cimbalom bands and folklore ensembles frequently perform abroad, presenting Czech culture in its most authentic form.
Well-known Bohemian and Moravian folk songs
Among the most popular Bohemian and Moravian folk songs are:
- Ach synku, synku – one of the best-known Moravian songs, often considered an unofficial Moravian anthem. It was a favourite of Czechoslovakia’s first president, Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk.
- Kdyby byl Bavorov – a South Bohemian song in which a young man sings that he would gladly marry a lass if only she were from his hometown.
- Beskyde, Beskyde – an energetic song from the Beskydy mountain region.
- Okolo Frýdku cestička – a melody known even to children.
- Teče voda, teče – a gentle, lyrical Moravian song.
- Černé oči, jděte spát – “Black eyes, go to sleep” a popular dance song.
- Ej, od Buchlova – a typical example of Moravian Slovácko singing.
These songs are passed down orally, which is why many regional variations exist—but you would be hard pressed to find someone in Czechia who does not know them or would not join you in song.
Folklore as a living part of Czech culture
Perhaps it is the simplicity of the melodies, perhaps the strength of tradition. Or perhaps it is the moment when the cimbalom begins to play and voices rise in song, creating an atmosphere modern music finds hard to rival. This is not music that is merely played; it is music that is lived.
