Bulgarian+Music

__**Bulgarian music**__ Instruments mostly used in Bulgarian folk music:
 * 1) The gaida-goat skin bagpipe
 * 2) The kaval-end-blown flute
 * 3) The gadulka-bowed string instrument
 * 4) The tupan- a large frame drum worn over the shoulder and

Folk music: Bulgarian folk music varies in between regions. Usually, it is women singing and men play the instruments. Bulgarian folklore songs come from old days, when women used to sing in the fields while working. Philip Koutev has become the most influential folklore musician of the decade. He is the one who formed the State Ensemble for Folk Songs and Dances, as well as the internationally recognized Bulgarian State Television Female Vocal Choir. Bulgarian choirs are consisted usually of females, using unique rhythms, harmony and poliphony, and the singing of a drone accompaniment underneath the melody. Folklore music is usually accompanied by traditional Bulgarian dances, accompanied with traditional instruments, and traditional folklore clothing. It is usually played and sung at occasions such as weddings, special social gatherings, concerts, etc.

Chalga (Pop-folk) music: Chalga is a contemporary style of music, combining traditional Bulgarian music with European and other influences. It mainly combines Arabic, Romanian, Greek, Turkish, Serbian influences and others. Its style of dancing is called kuychek. Chalga is the most popular style of music in Bulgaria nowadays and it is what most young people listen to. However, it has been widely criticized for not having any actual Bulgarian roots, combining instead Arabic, Turkish or other rhythms. It is known not to be too complex to sing or play, which leads to criticism and controversy. So far, however, it is widely successful and it is often compare to the US disco in the 70s.