Contribution of the Yugoslav Sokol organizations to the interwar sphere of music

Abstract

In this article part of musical activities of two federal Sokol organizations (JSS and SSKJ) in interwar Yugoslavia will be thoroughly examined. Despite the fact that these organizations were primarily focused on development of gymnastics and certain individual sports, cultural advancement of its members as well as of Yugoslav population also occupied an important place, particularly in the 1930s. As a result of broadening of Sokol?s work, musical amateurism started to gain prominence in Sokol legions, societies and parishes (zupe). This was reflected in the proliferation of Sokol vocal and instrumental ensembles, as well as their performances in various Sokol units, both in urban and rural areas. The flourishing of musical activities among Sokols from different parts of the country led to the change of circumstances in the cultural sphere of these regions, particularly in the undeveloped ones. Among other things, this included giving an impetus to the preservation and popularization of tamburitza orchestras and epic singing to the accompaniment of the gusle, promotion of national and Slavic music repertoire and enrichment and diversification of musical life.