Puhaskirjalised

Puhaskirjalised refers to a category of Estonian folk music characterized by its purity and simplicity of form. This classification often distinguishes a particular style of singing and melodic structure found in older traditions, before more complex arrangements or influences became widespread. The term itself translates to "pure-written" or "pure-scripted," suggesting a focus on the fundamental elements of the song, such as the melody, text, and a clear, unadorned vocal delivery.

The music within the puhaskirjalised tradition is typically monophonic, meaning it consists of a single melodic line. Vocal harmonies, if present, are generally simple and often incidental, arising from the natural resonance of voices singing together rather than from deliberate harmonic composition. The lyrical content often draws from everyday life, nature, and traditional beliefs, reflecting the rural and agrarian societies from which the music emerged. Melodically, puhaskirjalised songs tend to be straightforward, with a limited range and repetitive patterns, making them easily memorable and singable. This style is considered a foundational element of Estonian folk music, providing a basis for later developments and variations.