: Despite Staynov's total loss of eyesight, his ability to capture the visual energy of dance in orchestral form is regarded as a feat of "astonishing intuition". The "Rachenitsa" is often used as a standard for Bulgarian performing mastery. Where to Listen

"Rachenitsa" (Ръченица) is the final movement of Petko Staynov's iconic symphonic suite, ( Trakijski tantsi ), composed between 1925 and 1926. It is widely considered the first classical symphonic adaptation of the traditional Bulgarian dance of the same name and remains one of the most recognizable pieces of Bulgarian classical music. Historical Background

: As a Rachenitsa , the piece is built on the characteristic Bulgarian 7/8 meter (often counted as 2+2+3). It captures the fast-paced, energetic nature of the folk dance.

You can find various performances of "Rachenitsa" by renowned Bulgarian ensembles:

for those interested in a solo performance version. Petko Staynov's Thracian Dances - Radio Bulgaria in English