THE CLASH OF OPINIONS REGARDING INNOVATION IN A TRADITION: THE CASE OF THE REPERTOIRE OF LATVIAN NATIONWIDE SONG AND DANCE CELEBRATION

Abstract

In this article the tradition of Song and Dance Celebration (SDC) is analysed, focusing on the aspects of innovation of its repertoire and the effect these innova- tions may have on the development of traditions. Repertoire is the one aspect which pervades the whole SDC process and is dealt with by all actors – organisers, participants (choir members), conductors, audience members. Repertoire is also one of the most changing aspects of the SDC, because at the beginning of every five-year cycle it is redefined and is put together anew. Lately, the content of the repertoire has been a subject of discussions especially regarding the ability of partici- pants of the amateur-arts groups. The main goal of this article is to describe if and how innovations in the SDC repertoire are an obstacle or the source of a progress. In this article theoretical and empirical data gathered in the framework of research programme HABITUS have been used. Data show that participants are not satisfied with the proportion and content of the new compositions (innovations) in the repertoire. Nevertheless, article argues that the aspects of innovation are inevitable and necessary in order for this tradition to be sustainable, progressing and actual. It cannot be asserted that too many innovations in the repertoire could stop the SDC tradition altogether. However, it is suggested that few actions are taken in order for the tradition to keep on being widely practised and accepted by large groups of people.