Theories/approaches to Tamburica arrangements

[morovich]

Duka,

Excellent work! Thank you for wrtiting the first scholarly piece on tamburica technique on the web. I look forward to reading more!

You mentioned that you wouldn't be posting arrangements per se, but, in future articles, would you consider examining approaches and theories regarding good tamburica arranging (how prim parts work with bas prim, celo, etc) and good examples and tips on composing instrument parts that work well with vocals?

Perhaps we can look at good composer/arrangers (Njikos, Nikolic, Andric, Potocnik, Ljevakovic, Leopold or Uhlik in the folk scene and bands in the tambura-pop scene and how the two differ).

Also, looking at regional styles, melodic and harmonic construction, and ornamentation so that when one plays a tune in the style of Lika, Podravina or Dalmacija, that it doesn't all come out sounding Slavonian or Vojvodinian.

Perhaps we could look at tamburica texture and how it works with other instruments found in the Croatian folk tradition (cimbal, dude, violine)and the use of typically non-Croatian instruments.

Bok,
JM

[morovich]

On a realted note, (pardon the pun), I think it would be beneficial to examine a historical overview of the evolution of tamburica in Croatia and from the time of Pajo Kolaric, through the post WWII radio orchestras years, the "festival" composers of the 60's and '70's, to present day composition and how it differs from the separate evolution and styles of tambura in North America.

I've given talks on the subject and am willing to share my research with you.

[duka]

Morovich,

As for your first message, I think you have some good ideas. Vjeko and I have already been discussing many of the items you have mentioned. I can see us working on those things fairly soon. At the current moment we have a short range plan (approx. 2 months) of some of the Tamburalicks we would like to post. After that, things are fairly open. By the way, thanks for the compliment. smile.gif
In terms of your second message, my knowledge of those things is fairly limited. I haven't researched that aspect of Croatian music history as extensively as you have. I know most of the groups and people in question, but have never really made an in depth comparison of the various decades and genres. I'd love to hear more from you on this topic.

[morovich]

Cool.
Email me when then timing is good for you. I look forward to exchanging ideas with you.