Armenian lyrical folklore is one of the gems of folklore. Mostly expresses one’s feelings and condition’s a reflection of the relationship between the individual and society. The lyrical folklore is divided into two main categories – the native and the spirited.
The “hayrenner” are the oldest lyrical folk songs, comming the X century. They illustrate the rich history of Armenia by displaying unique imagery accompanied by seductive melodies, confirming that music can tame even the wildest beast. Since the 13th century, the “hayrenners” have entered the medieval manuscripts, in the same time continuing to remain in the folk oral arts. The main performers of the “hayrenner” were free singers – gusans.
The earliest, most evidenced and widespread were songs of armenian folk singers – gusans. They were creative and performing artists – singers, instrumentalists, dancers, storytellers, and professional folk actors in public theaters of Parthia and ancient and medieval Armenia. Gusans told about love and joy with accompanied by drumming, flute, harp, lyre.
The khaghikner , which first written specimens meet in the 18th century In the manuscripts, are the basis of the new Armenian folk lyrics and generally folk songs, and elements of modern-day epic, about a soldier, working, some-degree ritual (ascension draw) songs.
They are, as a separate style, mostly songs composed by young girls and boys. They express their simple romantic feelings, expectations.
Lyrical folklore, by its nature, purpose, and theme, is divided into several types: rustic, expatriate, military, crib and children’s songs. The songs on immigration are unique as they relate to one of the main characteristics of Armenian national and social life since the Middle Ages.
These songs are indicative of the migrant and his relatives, the longing for suffering, sickness, death, the expectations of relatives in the homeland, as well as the motives for the return of the wanderer and the happy experiences associated with it.։
Translated by Mariam Ispiryan
