The bard movement was a cultural phenomenon that emerged in the USSR in the 1960s. Bards were authors and performers of songs with original lyrics and melodies, conveying their ideology through songs. They sang about love, life, death, social inequalities and political repression in the Soviet Union. The bard movement was a kind of protest against the conservatism of the official culture and against the existing censorship. Great poets and songwriters such as Bulat Okudzhava, Yuri Vizbor and others belonged to the movement. This movement was an important moment in Soviet culture, it influenced the development of Russian rock music, the theater of poetic song and other cultural trends.
Festivals of bard songs were held regularly. Such festivals were held in cities where bards were most active, such as Moscow, Leningrad, Odessa, Tashkent and others. The tours brought together many talented bards who performed their songs to a wide audience. In addition, the festivals became a place where young authors could show their talents and receive support from the audience as well as bards. Festivals continue today, although they are now held in a more commercial format than in the past.
“Songs by the fire” is a traditional bard activity that has been practiced in the USSR and other countries for many years. It involves a group of people gathering around a fire, usually outdoors, and performing songs on the guitar. These gatherings usually include poetry, songs, snacks, drinks, and a good mood. It was also a good way to get your music out to people, as well as get new ideas and inspiration for creating new songs.