Sound Pictures from Bulgaria

Over fifty years ago, ethnographer and cultural specialist Martin Koenig embarked on a trip to Bulgaria armed with letters of introduction from anthropologist Margaret Mead and folklorist Alan Lomax. On this trip, as well as on numerous subsequent visits, he sought to research and document the traditional music and dance forms in their original settings. Working in villages throughout the area, he filmed, recorded and photographed the compelling yet endangered aspects of traditional culture he encountered. His historic recordings, photographs and films portray villagers, especially musicians and dancers, and their traditional way of life that has since been transformed by modernization, globalization and emigration.

This event is hosted in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria. Bulgaria currently holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Sincere thanks and acknowledgement to the American Research Center in Sofia and the Bulgarian Cultural and Heritage Center of Seattle for their contribution to this project.

This program was originally scheduled for March but was postponed due to inclement weather. Registration is required for this event. Registration is available here.