Cossack Songs, Thoughts and Texts on Cossack Themes in Musical Works in 1950s-80s

Abstract

The article examines the role of Cossack songs, thoughts and texts on Cossack themes in musical works from the 1950s to the 1980s, when the country was under the influence of Soviet ideology. The author points out that even in these conditions of restrictions, Ukrainian musical culture found expression for national self-awareness through works devoted to Cossack themes. It is also noted that Soviet society used the image of Cossacks within the framework of socialist ideology, emphasizing the heroism and great feats of Cossack soldiers. The article describes the importance of the work of performers and composers who managed to convey the spirit of the Cossack epic through their work. The article draws attention to the influence of Cossack musical and song culture on the professional work of composers of different generations. It is summarized that Cossack music influenced the creativity of various composers and enriched Ukrainian musical culture for decades. The importance of music in preserving and transmitting cultural traditions, as well as promoting interest in history and national themes in Ukraine is emphasized. In general, the Cossack theme in the music of this period acts as a form of expression of national self-awareness and heroic history in the conditions of the socialist context and totalitarian regime.