Dance and music are also essential aspects of the Armenian heritage. First, the music consisted of Church music and folk songs, together with Armenian songs Armenian dance was also developed and can be found depicted on some of the ancient paintings on rocks. With time other music genres influenced Armenian music so nowadays we can also hear modern styles such as Hip Hop, Pop, Rock.
“Each region and province in Armenia has always had its own dances and national costumes. Through theatrical dance, territorial districts expressed their life and customs, cultures, and traditions. Every movement in dance has its own history and meaning.
If you prefer warlike dances, then you would be interested in “Berd” and “Trahag”. Berd is a warlike national dance, performed by men, who form a two-story wall, climbing on each other’s shoulders. This dance reminds us of the days when Armenians heroically fought for their country. Trahag is a dance, performed by men using a variety of weapons – swords, sables, and thick sticks. It was originally performed as a rite to inspire soldiers before the war. The dance simulates warrior movements and demonstrates weapon-using skills.
If you are a fan of slow and gentle dances, then you would be interested in “Uzundara.” Uzundara is a female solo dance that appeared in Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh). Initially, the dance was a ceremony of the bride, which symbolized the bride’s farewell with the parental home. Movements in it are slow and restrained.
Kochari is also one of the most famous dances of Armenians. It originated in the almost prehistoric age. The dance is accompanied by the tune played on “zurna” and “dhol”. Performers form a circle and put their hands on each other’s shoulders.”
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