sârba

Sârba, also written sârbă, is a lively traditional dance from the Balkan and Romanian folk repertoires. It has roots in Serb communities and spread into Romanian and Moldovan folk culture from the 18th century onward, where it became a common feature of social gatherings and celebrations. In Romanian and Moldovan contexts, sârba is typically a fast-paced dance for two or more dancers, performed by couples or by a group in a circle or line, with dancers joining hands or linking arms.

The dance is characterized by brisk, energetic steps and hops, often followed by short pauses that align with the music. The accompanying music is upbeat and instrumental, featuring fiddles, accordions, clarinets, and, in some regions, cimbalom or other traditional instruments, usually in a lively duple rhythm. The emphasis is on tempo, coordination, and collective movement, which helps create a festive atmosphere.

Regional variants exist across Romania, Moldova, and neighboring areas, each with its own step patterns and figures, but all share a spirited, danceable character. The sârba is commonly performed at weddings, rural celebrations, and folk festivals, and it remains a staple in folk ensembles and cultural programs. In contemporary settings, it can appear in traditional presentations as well as modern choreographies, reflecting its enduring role in Balkan and Eastern European folk culture.