Traditional / folk music of Denmark

Traditional music has an important part in Danish culture. Denmark is one of Scandinavians countries and in fact it is Scandinavian’s link to Europe main continent. It is a progressive nation with an advocacy for human right. During World War II, they protect Jewish population while many of European countries refuse to do that. After World War II it has been home for some American jazz legends like Dexter Gordon and Kenny Drew.

Denmark has been influenced by many political, architectural, theatrical, and musical trends from the European countries. As a result, Danish folk music is distinct form other Scandinavian folk traditions, and it is more influenced by the British and northern Europe than Sweden or Norway.

Folk music of Denmark, is mostly based on fiddle and accordion . Danish fiddlers usually play in groups. It is more common to use guitar in folk bands in Denmark, other than other Scandinavians countries. Nordic folk dance music is also common in Denmark. Danish version of it accompanied by fiddle and accordion and generally it is a rhythmic dance music. The oldest version of these dances called Pols which is a pair dance. It is in ¾ time. It is in fact fast version of the Nordic polska.

One of the popular dances in Denmark is Les Lanciers. It is originated in England in 1860. Later spread through Europe but get less fashionable by the beginning of 20th century. Today it has survived in Denmark as a popular dance. It is a square dance and it is performed by four couples. It is a composite dance made up of five figures or tours, each performed four times so that each dance couple lead each parts.

Some other common traditional music dances in Denmark are waltz, polka, mazurka. Sønderhoning and fannik are another two folk music dance types which are from Fanø island. Sønderhoning is one of the most important and notable folk music style in Denmark.

As mentioned before, fiddle is most important instrument in the traditional music of Denmark. Evald Thomsen was one of the most important and famous Danish fiddler. He was also collector and promoter of Danish traditional music. He was an icon of the living tradition of Danish fiddle music.

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