The Macedonian "narodno" (folk or people's) musical style, founded in rural livelihood and expressive culture, is a little-known treasury of stirring songs and compelling dance melodies. The 9 Olives ensemble is performing a particularly valuable service in keeping this repertoire alive. An outstanding group of young singers and instrumentalists, they have been well received in Macedonian communities and by performers and aficionados of older Balkan musical styles. In addition to their performing skills, they are also excellent teachers. Their lively and engaged performances bode well for the survival of the style.<BR>
-- <B>Mark Forry, Ph.D.</B><BR>
Lecturer in Music, University of California at Santa Cruz
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"[9 Olives] really have the feel for Macedonian folk music"<BR>
-- <B>Lyuben Dossev</B><BR>
Assistant director of the Plovdiv Academy of Folk Arts and Music, Plovdiv Bulgaria