Traditional Dance and Music in Central and Eastern Europe – Summer School

Date: 22 June – 5 July 2025

Are you passionate about immersing yourself in the vibrant cultures of Central and Eastern Europe? Do you have a love for traditional music and dance? You are interested in practice and theory too? If so, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable journey at our upcoming summer school focused on traditional dance and music in the heart of this culturally rich region at the University of Szeged, Hungary, in the City of Sunshine!

Participants will be introduced to the main aspects and methods of the scientific approaches to the dance and music culture of the Carpathian Basin and will be provided with tools to understand cultural differences and to examine the specificities of their own culture, including music and dance. They will gain an understanding of the social roles and functions of music and dance culture and become acquainted with the most important online and offline archives, databases, and archiving systems. In addition to theory, there is a strong emphasis on practical dance and music experience, applying a workshop-oriented style in teaching.

We are not only interested in understanding communities, but in social sciences, we love to build them, too. So, expect to be part of an experience with interactive classes, small fieldwork practice and lots of dance and music, while not only gaining knowledge, but getting a new community, too! Come to the home of the training for dance researchers in Hungary and leave with an adaptable skillset all around the world!

Opinions of our participants of the 2024 summer school: 

'The summer school has enhanced my confidence and somehow improved my communication skills, I know where to use certain words and there is a lot of new information I gained. I would say that it's just not only the knowledge about the course but it's also contributing to my personal growth as a dance student.'

’Of course I will come back because I think it is a good opportunity where we can share, learn and observe how do the people outside of our country working on something especially in dance research. It's very fascinating to be surrounded by diverse nationalities and to discover and discuss about dance and music from many perspectives.’

’Yes, I would recommend the summer school because the theory and the pracitce was harmonized very well and because the interactive parts made it even more interesting.’

Organizers: Dr. Vivien Apjok, Dr. Kinga Povedák and Dr. Sándor Varga

Department of Ethnology and Cultural Anthropology (University of Szeged)

Contact us: neprajz.btk@szte.hu

Key Highlights:

• Hands-on workshops in traditional dances
• Music sessions featuring traditional instruments, melodies, and rhythms unique to the region
• Cultural immersion activities including visits to local museums, and experiencing the field
• Opportunities to interact with renowned experts in the field

How to Apply:

Ready to embark on a journey of discovery and creativity? Apply now by completing the online application form. Spaces are limited, so don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich music and dance traditions of Central and Eastern Europe!

Cost:

• EUR 290 for the 2-week-course (excluding meals, travel and accommodation)

OR

• You can apply for a bilateral state scholarship that covers all your costs for the summer school here: STATE SCHOLARSHIP (covering all expenses except your travel costs)

APPLICATION FORM 

The deadline for application is 27 February 2025.