Exploring the Folk Song 'Oi Matse Matse' by Trio Bulgarka: Lyrics, Translation, and Cultural Significance
The Bulgarian folk song ‘Oi Matse Matse’ by Trio Bulgarka captures the essence of traditional Bulgarian culture and its rich heritage in the field of folk music. This article delves into the detailed lyrics and English translations of the song, providing cultural insights and background to fully appreciate its significance.
Introduction to 'Oi Matse Matse'
'Oi Matse Matse' is a traditional Bulgarian folk song performed by Trio Bulgarka, a renowned Bulgarian folk group. The lyrics and melody transport the listeners to the heart of Bulgaria, where centuries of storytelling and cultural traditions come to life through singing and dancing.
Bulgarian Lyrics and English Translation
Verse 1:
Bulgarian: Ой Маце Маце юнак ти си
През гори, поля, реки, ти пътуваш.
Пътуваш ти, Маце злато събираш.
Злато събираш, Маце мома харесваш.
English Translation: Oh Matse Matse, you are a brave heron
You travel through forests, fields, and rivers.
You travel, Matse, collecting gold.
Collecting gold, Matse, you win the heart of a girl.
Verse 2:
Bulgarian: Ой Маце Маце мори юбаво Маце/
От Бог да найда мори Мацина майка/
Що прати Маце мори за студна вода/
Лудо я сретна мори насреди пътьо/
Китка взема мори от руса глава/
Викна си Маца мори Маца да плаче/
Нимой ми взимаш лудо китка от глава/
Чи яз си имам лудо първо си либе/
Ой Маце Маце мори юбаво Маце/
От Бог да найда мори Мацина майка.
English Translation: Oy Matse Matse dear beautiful Matse/
May God help me find dear Matsa’s mother/
Why did she send Matsa dear for cold water/
A young lad met her dear on the road/
Took the flower dear from her blonde head/
Matsa cried out dear Matsa began to cry/
Don’t you take young lad the flower from my head/
For I have young lad my first love/
Oy Matse Matse dear beautiful Matse/
May God help me find dear Matsa’s mother.
Understanding Bulgarian Culture Through Folk Song
Traditional Bulgarian folk songs like 'Oi Matse Matse' reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. The lyrics interweave personal stories, historical elements, and social customs, providing a glimpse into the lives and experiences of Bulgarians in the past.
The Significance of 'Matsa'
The name 'Matsa' (Matse) in the song refers to a young woman. The second verse mentions her as a young girl who is sent for cold water, which was a common domestic task in rural Bulgarian households. This task often carried romantic connotations as it involved interactions with young men.
Interjections and Cultural Context
The interjection 'mori' used in the second verse is an archaic word often used to address women, especially those close to the speaker. Today, it has fallen out of favor and is primarily used in folk songs. The phrase 'ludo' in the lyrics, translated as 'crazy' or 'reckless', captures the youthful spirit and carefree nature associated with the tasks performed by young women in traditional culture.
Contemporary Folk Music: Trio Bulgarka
Trio Bulgarka has been instrumental in keeping traditional Bulgarian music alive in the 21st century. Their performances and recordings honor the past while also engaging with modern audiences. Through their music, they explore themes that resonate with the collective Bulgarian identity and the enduring traditions that shape it.
Conclusion
The Bulgarian folk song 'Oi Matse Matse' by Trio Bulgarka is more than just a joyful melody; it is a window into Bulgaria's cultural history. The lyrics, their meanings, and the underlying cultural context provide valuable insights into the lives and values of Bulgarian people in times past. Whether experienced in person or through recordings, these songs continue to captivate audiences and preserve the traditions that make Bulgarian culture so unique.