Recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, Canto a Tenore is an extraordinary, archaic form of pastoral polyphonic singing originating from the heart of Barbagia. Performed entirely a cappella by a male quartet, the music relies on four distinct voice roles: sa oche (the solo lead voice telling a story), accompanied by is moge, contra, and bassu (the deep, guttural drone voices that mimic the sounds of farm animals and wind). Listening to a live performance of Tenore singing evokes a raw, hypnotic atmosphere that feels directly connected to the most ancient roots of Mediterranean civilization.

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