MUSIC CULTURE OF THE WEST UKRAINIAN PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC (1918–1923)

Abstract

The centuries of the WUPR’s existence and an array of sources on its history require a systematic study of the significance and description of the features of daily components of musical culture in this Republic as the purpose of scientific research. The methodology of studies is based on the collection of new materials, their interpretation and scientific classification. The research of the facts and the process of interpreting the information found assert the hermeneutical studies of the process of development of Ukrainian music. Description of its character in the WUPR as the scientific novelty of our article was predeter-mined by previous artistic traditions, spiritual elevation of the social strata of Ukrainians as a result of the declaration of their own state, the struggle at both the frontline and the home front. The enrichment of musical life was facilitated by greater freedom of public self-affirmation in music and thanks to it. The works of patriotic pathos became relevant. Church music was distinctive. The increase in the number of Ukrainian soldiers expanded the scope of national military music. The array of songs in the army was complemented by the ones written or reworked in the WUPR. The notes were printed. The carol singers and the concert participants gave money to the wounded. Such a civic position stimulated the skill of the performers. The government took care about some of them to the best of its ability. We mostly know of amateur musical works, but professional artists performed too. The reaction of the press to the music events was among the pillars of the development of art. In Ukrainian schools, songs helped to teach history, to educate. The support of music was facilitated by the demand for theatrical performances. The music successfully fulfilled its social and cultural functions in the life of civilians and military, social strata, believers of different denominations, helped to survive, fight, educate and mobilize, heal, overcome difficulties, express sorrow. That time featured the third stage of development of a style called the music Biedermeier. Conclusions. The consequent actions of the state in the field of culture have shown a high appre-ciation of the value of musical art, especially during the war. The mentions of its manifestations in the WUPR give grounds for asserting its certain contribution to Ukrainian music. The prospect of further research is seen in the study of new sources which will help to clarify the biographies of musicians, the list of their works, to identify the new names of participants in artistic groups, and to systematize the musical iconography of those times. This will help to broaden the description of musical culture of the WUPR on the basis of additional facts.