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The University High School Band
The History and Theory of Music

Folk Music

From the Renaissance through the Classical Period, much European high art drew on the mythology of ancient Greece and Rome. In the Romantic Period, nineteenth century writers and musicians looked more often to their own national heritage for inspiration.

Norse and Germanic folklore drew special attention. Joining Jupiter, Juno, and Mars in the European pantheon came Odin, Freya, and Thor; among the ranks of heroes, Perseus, Orpheus, and Jason were joined by Siegfried, Beowulf, and Percival. Alongside nymphs, satyrs, and dryads you could now find elves, dragons, and trolls.

In addition, the dances and musical styles of "minority" populations garnered attention, with composers exploring Hungarian, Polish, Finnish, Romani (gypsy), and even Turkish music.

Polish Mazurka
Russian Trepák
Hungarian Verbunko

Open-Ended Question

Is it appropriate for composers to adapt the music of cultures other than their own?