Volikirju

Volikirju is a type of traditional Estonian folk music. It refers to a specific style of singing, which is characterized by polyphonic arrangements, typically involving six to eight singers. Volikirju is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Estonian ethnic group.

The origins of volikirju date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, developing as a unique type of music that flourished particularly in the region of Saaremaa. This singing tradition has been shaped by the strong oral tradition of the Estonian people, where music and singing have always played a vital role in social gatherings, celebrations, and daily life.

A distinctive feature of volikirju is its complex orchestration, often with multiple vocal parts singing simultaneously. The singers use various techniques, like harmonizing, countering, and call-and-response patterns, to create intricate musical layers. The entire performance is often accompanied by hobbeharp (a type of bagpipe), or in some cases, other traditional instruments.

Volikirju has mostly been preserved through the passing down of the songs and singing techniques from generation to generation within the local community. The tradition has faced challenges in recent times due to the influence of modernization and urbanization, resulting in a gradual decline of the young population's interest in the practice of volikirju.

Today, efforts are being made by Estonian cultural preservation organizations and communities to document and preserve this traditional music form, ensuring that it remains a part of the country's rich cultural heritage.