The emergence of urban traditional singing (locally called starogradska muzika) is related to the development of cities and the bourgeoisie under influence of the West in the Ottoman-occupied North Macedonia during the 19th century.
Unlike rural folk music, which portrays life in villages, the nature surrounding them, and the hard agricultural work performed in the fields, the urban traditional music is about life in the city and its famous loves, tragedies, and characters, from rich traders to impoverished beggars. This type of music uses instruments such as violins and clarinets instead of ones associated with more rural music, such as gajda.
While rural folk performers usually wear traditional village costumes, these performers are usually dressed in European old city fashions, including suits, hats and neckties, as well as accessories such as pocket watches and walking sticks.
Raspeani strumicani (Engl. Melodious people from Strumica) is among the prominent vocal and instrumental ensembles in the country. It has existed for about seventy years. Its beginnings are found in the context of the then Boro Djoni Cultural and Artistic Association as a section for cultivating and nurturing urban traditional and folk songs. The Association included a musical orchestra which had a double function: to accompany the folklore section, but also the vocal choristers and soloists during the performance of both types songs. The orchestra was led by a professional, full-time employee as music and organizational manager.
Since 1st January 1987, it has started performing as an independent vocal-instrumental ensemble under the auspices of the Cultural Centre in Strumica. In that period, the ensemble released the first audio and video work called “Na sam den Trimeri” (On the day of Trimeri) in full processing and arrangements by the manager Stojan Stojanov. Since 2004, the patronage of the ensemble has been taken over by the Anton Panov National institution – the Center for Culture in Strumica. Membership in the ensemble is strictly voluntary and amateur based on affinity and love for beautiful, quality music.
As a nurturer of tradition, the ensemble has a large number of performances, guest appearances and awards. The ensemble’s last successful appearance was at the 53rd State Festival of Folk Songs and Dances “Ilinden Days” in 2023 in Bitola, where it won the first prize for the most successful group that performed urban traditional music and songs from the Strumica region.
The ensemble has about 30 members (choristers and orchestra). Every year in honor of the holiday of the city of Strumica, the St. Fifteen Holy Martyrs of Tiberias, on 11 December, the ensemble holds its annual concert. During the Trimeri celebrations, it presents the Strumica tradition and culture through customs, music, songs and dances.
As mentioned above, the attire reflects the influence of Western urban culture on the region during that period. However, in recent times, there has been a growing awareness of sustainability in the creation of such costumes.
As ensembles like Raspeani Strumicani continue to honor tradition and promote urban traditional music, they are also recognizing the importance of incorporating sustainable practices into their wardrobe choices. This shift towards sustainability involves sourcing eco-friendly materials for costumes, utilizing traditional craftsmanship techniques, and prioritizing ethical production methods.
By embracing sustainable practices in the creation of their attire, ensembles like Raspeani Strumicani not only preserve cultural heritage but also contribute to environmental conservation. Their commitment to sustainability aligns with their role as nurturers of tradition and advocates for the preservation of Strumica’s cultural identity.
