The invention of tradition : how the Swiss identity is manifest in the evolution of folksong

2009·6.9 MB·English

by  Robertson, Adam Boyson, author

'
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in 2017 with funding from
University of Alberta Libraries
https://archive.org/details/robertson2009
University of Alberta
The Invention of Tradition: How Swiss Identity is Manifest in the Evolution of Folksong
by
Adam Boyson Robertson
An essay submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements
for the degree of Master of Music
in
Choral Conducting
Department of Music
' * Ub ALSERI
EDMONTON. AL65ERTJ&
Edmonton, Alberta
Fall, 2009

Abstract
The development of a culture’s identity is a complex and ever changing process.
Religious, social, and political factors play key roles in the evolution of a culture’s
mentality (values, beliefs, and self-image). Folksongs are symbolic representations of this
mentality. Thus, studying the folksongs of a particular culture offers insight into that
culture’s identity. Switzerland has a rich folk music tradition, and has endured almost
continual religious, social, and political reforms since its inception. As such, Switzerland
provides an ideal context in which to study the impact of the changes in a culture’s
identity on the evolution of that culture’s folksong. This essay discusses the evolution of
the Swiss identity and Swiss folksong from a sociopolitical context by outlining the
numerous revolutions that spurred political reforms in Switzerland. It discusses the
evolution of the Swiss festival culture, and the creation of new, aesthetically-crafted
folkloristic compositions that, in turn, prompted the creation of modern traditions.
Finally, an analysis of folk melodies and texts will be presented in order to observe
different aspects of the Swiss identity manifest in Swiss folksong.