Sicilian folk music, also known as "mattanza," is a traditional form of music that originates from the Italian island of Sicily. It is deeply rooted in the rural communities and has been a significant part of the island's cultural heritage for centuries. This genre of music reflects the rich history and diverse cultural influences that Sicily has experienced over the years. Sicilian folk music is a blend of various musical styles and traditions, including Arabic, Spanish, Greek, and Norman influences. It is characterized by its energetic rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and the use of traditional instruments such as the zampogna (bagpipe), organetto (accordion), friscalettu (flute), and tamburello (tambourine). The lyrics in Sicilian folk songs often tell stories of love, loss, and daily life in the rural communities.
The lyrics in Sicilian folk songs often tell stories of love, loss, and daily life in the rural communities. They convey a sense of nostalgia for the island's past and celebrate its unique culture. The songs are typically sung in Sicilian dialect, adding to their authenticity and connection to the local heritage.
Witchcraft, Folklore, Polytheism
Hey! That’s wonderful! They’re surprisingly difficult to find any accurate information on!
My best resources are the article by Sabina Magliocco titled Witchcraft, healing, and vernacular magic in Italy, a less reliable article (that mixes witch-lore and folk magic all together) by J.B. Andrews called Neapolitan Witchcraft, and Carlo Ginzburg’s book The Night Battles about the benandanti in Friuli (Northeastern region of Italy).
If anyone knows any other sources feel free to list them!
Italian witch lore is very old, as there have been legends of witches in this region for a very long, accountable period. The word strega (witch) most likely comes from the Latin strix (screech owl) which witches were thought to take the shape of in the night. The practice of witchcraft is called stregoneria, a male witch is a stregone, and a female witch is a strega.
There are more legends of Italian witches in the south (particularly near Naples). One of the most famous is the story of the witches of Benevento, who convened beneath a walnut tree on a hill therein, and danced and worshiped the Devil. This tree was supposedly cut down.
There is a popular image of a witch who arises among Christian tradition in Italy, even still today. This witch is called Old Befana or Bella Befana(Bruta Befana, Bella Befana or Vecchia Befana) who is a good witch who lived alone in a small cottage. One day, three wise men knocked on her door. “Behold! The child of God is born, (yada yada) we’re going to find him and bring him gifts! Will you join us Old Befana?” Now, Old Befana was glad to hear the news and excited to meet the new babe and give it what gifts she could. However, she was not one to shuck her responsibilities so she said she would have to wait until her chores were completed. They agreed and she saw them off, before finishing her cleaning. Once her duties were completed, she packed up her presents for the babe, hopped promptly onto the broom she had just finished sweeping with, and flew out the chimney into the cold night. However, they had not told her how to find them again! Not wanting to deny the boy his gifts, she decided to give some to all the little children she passed on her way, as any might be the new born child of God. Every year on that same night, Old Befana rides out on her broom and deposits gifts for little children, in hopes that one day she will finally find the baby Jesus and give him the presents she has been holding all this time.
In southern Italy, many of the tales of witches (streghe) and folk healers (fattucchiere, or ‘fixers’) tell of the songs they sing to work their magic. Unfortunately, this seems to be all anyone knows on the subject, and I can’t find any references or information on these songs!
In lore, the witches of both benevolent and malefic natures are closely related or interchangeable with more faerie-like spirits. The Janare of Naples/Janas of Sardinia (lit. followers of Diana) are magical women said to live in Neolithic shaft tombs and are expert weavers and spinners. They sometimes intermarry with humans, but are very different from the cogas (or little cooks) of Sardinia, who are malefic witches that cook and eat their victims.
Most folk magic in Italy has died out, even in many of the rural areas. What is documented and what remains is all, unsurprisingly, Catholic magic. Much of it draws to saints, prayers, and Catholic holy tools. One name for this form of magic is benedicaria. However, much of it seems more agricultural or magical and less religious in nature. There is no point assuming this other source is pagan, because we could never prove where almost of any of it originated.
Most witchcraft you will find today in Italy, especially in urbanized areas, is of a New Age or Neo-pagan persuasion. Neo-Wicca is about the best you can hope to find, and even that is comparatively rare to that found in Great Britain, Australia, and the U.S.
In conversations about Italian magic and witchcraft, Raven Grimassi’s book Italian Witchcraft tends to come up. THIS BOOK IS UTTER BULLSHIT. HOGWASH. STUFF AND NONSENSE. It’s almost literally just Neo-Wicca with different names and some made up information. I’m not exaggerating. If you have this book, it’s better off as kindling than on your bookshelf. Just saying.
Charles Leland’s book Aradia: The Gospel of the Witches is a pretty piece of poetry, and perhaps has some truths in it, but it can never be relied upon. His source is not credible, and the information doesn’t add up well. It is a beautiful book, but not an accurate account of Italian magic or witchcraft.
Here are a few blog posts I have made relating to Italian witchcraft and folk magic:
Bruno’s own first supernatural experience came at age 12 when she looked over at a classmate in school and suddenly experienced a vision accompanied by a cold chill.
One notable aspect of Sicilian folk music is the use of improvisation. Musicians often add their own twists and variations, creating a lively and dynamic performance that is unique to each rendition. This improvisational style allows the musicians to showcase their skill and creativity, adding a sense of spontaneity and excitement to the music. Sicilian folk music is not only limited to traditional performances but has also influenced other genres of music. Throughout history, it has had an impact on popular Sicilian music, opera, and even contemporary compositions. The melodies and rhythms of Sicilian folk music can be heard in various forms of music, highlighting its enduring influence and importance. Today, efforts are being made to preserve and promote Sicilian folk music. Cultural organizations, festivals, and musicians are working together to keep the tradition alive, passing it on to future generations. These efforts help to ensure that the rich cultural heritage of Sicily is appreciated and celebrated by people from all over the world. In conclusion, Sicilian folk music is an essential part of the island's cultural heritage. Its vibrant rhythms, heartfelt lyrics, and unique blend of musical influences capture the spirit and history of Sicily. Despite the modernization of music, it continues to thrive and evolve, showcasing the preservation and appreciation of traditional music in the region..
Reviews for "The Influence of Sicilian Folk Matic on Contemporary Music"
1. Jenna - 2/5 stars - I wasn't a fan of "Sicilian folk matic". The songs all blended together and lacked any distinctiveness. I couldn't find a single memorable moment in the entire album. The lyrics were also quite repetitive and didn't engage me at all. Overall, I found it to be a forgettable listening experience.
2. John - 1/5 stars - "Sicilian folk matic" was a disappointment. The production quality was subpar, and it felt like the artist didn't put much effort into creating something unique. The album lacked energy and failed to captivate my attention. I couldn't connect with the music or the lyrics, and I felt like I wasted my time listening to it. I wouldn't recommend this album to anyone.
3. Lisa - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for "Sicilian folk matic", but it fell short for me. The songs all sounded too similar, and there wasn't enough variation throughout the album. The lack of diversity made it difficult to stay engaged, and I found myself losing interest quickly. While I appreciate the effort put into the album, it just wasn't my cup of tea.
4. Mark - 1/5 stars - "Sicilian folk matic" was a complete miss for me. The music was monotonous, and the melodies felt uninspired. The album lacked any standout tracks or memorable moments. It didn't leave any lasting impression on me, and I doubt I'll ever revisit it. Overall, I found it to be a disappointing release.