Focus

The Balkans are in the centre, or focal point, of world history. In 1914, events in this region sparked off World War I. Today, at the end of the 20th century, it is clear that the conflicts, which date back to the 16th century, have not by any means died out.

This piece carries no political message, but in this time of war simply puts a spotlight on Balkan folk music, which is one of the richest in the world.

The form can be considered as "focal" - a simple Albanian bridal song is the centre point and only appears once. It is flanked by Dances from Macedonia and Bul­garia and by a Bulgarian cradle­song, which are all repeated in mirror form. A short Bosnian theme recurs as a refrain, linking the various other parts.