The ′Guslar′: Individual identity and tradition

The subject of this paper is the relation between individual and collective identity within the folk-music tradition, from the perspective of ethnomusicology. Solo folk musicians have more latitude than those who perform in ensembles. They are more independent in developing their own style. As an example of this intermingling of individual and traditional styles, we have chosen Branko Perović, ′guslar′ (a singer of epic songs who accompanies himself on the ′gusle′) - currently one of the very best. Both his extraordinary vocal qualities and his unique combination of temperament and emotions have enabled Perović to develop an original performing style. By comparing the regional, Montenegrin style of gusle-playing (of which Perović is a representative) with his personal style, we have established certain corresponding structures regarding a few basic analytical parameters: musical form at the macro-level, tonal structure, and harmonic structure. Individual characteristics are to be found in melodic patterns, dynamics, agogics and ornaments, and to a certain extent, in rhythm. Although Perović is considered to be an ′innovator′ among folk musicians, taking a dynamic approach to tradition, he is, however, well received and highly rated in folk music circles, which is proof of his successful communication with his audience. His reputation and influence on other gusle-players makes him a worthy link in the chain of epic tradition. His performance underlines the importance of the connection between traditional music and society, within which he develops his own style according to his capacities and inclinations, although constantly referring to the functional and aesthetic criteria of his cultural environment in which he performs. This is how adopted models are being reshaped by both individual artistic style and the current cultural pattern of a given community. The individual identity (of the musician) is in constant interaction with those of his/her ancestors and contemporaries. The extraordinary, charismatic personalities of a guslar such as Perović, secure the continuation of the tradition into the future