Sound recordings and Karel Strekelj: The initiator of a new approach to folk song research in Slovenia

Abstract

The Slovenian philologist and folk song researcher Karel Strekelj (1859-1812) was one of the first researchers in Slovenia to recognise the importance and usefulness of a new sound recording method. Based on a detailed study of archival documents and relevant literature, in this article I examine Strekelj?s contribution to folk music research using a new technical device and introducing a new method of sound documentation to field research. By placing his plans and efforts in a broader context of folk song research, one concludes that Strekelj was more ambitious and forward-thinking than many other researchers at the time.