Discovering Dobrogea: A Vibrant Four-Hand Piano Journey by Mada & Hugh

The Mada & Hugh Piano Duo Podcast

Welcome to a new chapter in the musical travels of the Mada & Hugh Piano Duo! This time, we’re diving into the vibrant sounds of Romania with our latest arrangement: the Suita din Dobrogea (Suite from Dobrogea). Let us take you on a journey through music and culture as we explore the roots and rhythms of this unique region, all captured in a one-of-a-kind four-hand piano performance.

A Love Letter to Romania

Mada, born in Romania, shares a deep connection to her homeland, and Hugh, inspired by his partner, has embraced Romanian culture with enthusiasm. Together, we’ve been fascinated by the rich traditions of Romanian folk music, which have influenced classical composers like Liszt, Brahms, and Enescu. But there’s something particularly special about the Dobrogea region that we couldn’t resist exploring further.

Dobrogea: A Cultural Crossroads

Dobrogea is located in Southeastern Romania, bordered by the Black Sea, Bulgaria, and the Danube River. It’s a land steeped in history, having been touched by Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and Bulgarian influences over the centuries. This cultural melting pot is evident not only in its architecture and history but also in its music.

Mada’s family roots trace back to this region, which makes it especially dear to us. Dobrogea is home to some of the oldest cities in Romania, like Constanța, with its Roman ruins and strategic location as a crossroads of trade. This dynamic cultural exchange has infused Dobrogea's music with an unparalleled diversity and vibrancy.

Unearthing the Dobrogean Suite

The Suita din Dobrogea is a collection of traditional music recorded in the 1970s and later reinterpreted in the 1990s. These pieces, which are improvised rather than written down, capture the essence of Dobrogea’s folk traditions. They feature distinctive instruments like the nai (Romanian pan flute), the dulcimer (also known as țambal), and the violin.

The standout rhythm in these pieces is the Jamparale, a lively traditional dance. Its odd meters and Eastern-inspired improvisations make it both challenging and exciting to adapt for piano. We were captivated by this music’s energy and spirit and decided to create our own four-hand piano arrangement to bring it to a wider audience.

A Unique Four-Hand Arrangement

Transforming the Suita din Dobrogea into a piano duet was both a challenge and a joy. The suite’s rich textures, intricate rhythms, and improvisational essence demanded a deep understanding of the music’s roots. We worked tirelessly to honor the authenticity of the original recordings while giving it our personal touch as pianists.

What makes this music so engaging is its ability to surprise and captivate. The odd rhythms, Eastern tonalities, and interplay between East and West in its melodies speak to the heart of Romanian folk culture. For us, playing this music together is not just a performance; it’s a celebration of Dobrogea’s vibrant legacy.

Why Dobrogea Stands Out

While Romania is a tapestry of diverse regions, Dobrogea stands out for its blend of influences and historical significance. Its music reflects centuries of cultural exchange, from Greek and Roman traditions to Turkish and Balkan sounds. For us, Dobrogea feels like the beating heart of Romania—an energetic, colorful region that continues to inspire.

Join Us on This Journey

We hope you’ll enjoy our four-hand piano arrangement of the Suita din Dobrogea. It’s a tribute to the region’s rich heritage and a celebration of the universal language of music. Whether you’re familiar with Romanian folk traditions or hearing them for the first time, we believe this suite has the power to transport and inspire.

Without further ado, we invite you to experience the sounds of Dobrogea through our unique interpretation. Thank you for joining us on this journey!