The folk music of a people is its expression in sound, which, due to its relatively simple form, is understood and practised by many members of the community. etnika is based on the hypothesis of an instrumental form of ethnic folk music played by the local musicians (daqqaqa), on traditional instruments in various social contexts; from weddings to funerals, town criers and street vendors. The break in oral tradition of this instrumental folk music has led to a loss in musical heritage, which constitutes melodies, rhythm and instruments. Etnika is an attempt in the recuperation of a musical tradition rooted in our ethnic origins.

Etnika is an ongoing programme, which is committed to the promotion and awareness of our local music heritage. It is based on the hypothesis of an instrumental form of music, which was played in the past by roving musicians, on instruments indigenous to the islands. Central to this programme is the faithful reconstruction of ethnic Maltese instruments and their projection onto a contemporary platform through performance.

Below you may download and listen to the first 30 seconds of some of the music found on Etnika's first Cd Nafra.

	Titles	Time	Listen	Download
	Preludju	0.30/0.45
	Grinta	0.30/5.04
	Interludju*	0.30/0.44
	Harba	0.30/4.32
	Parata*	0.30/2.51
	Raghaj (rai)	0.30/5.46
	Interludju*	0.30/1.37
	L-Ghanja tal-Mewg	0.30/7.01
	Interludju*	0.30/0.46
	Tama	0.30/9.38
Produced by Andrew Alamango and Ruben Zahra
* Traditional - from Maltese Melodies; or National airs and dances, usually performed by the Maltese at their carnival and other festivals by Edward Jones, harp master & bard to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. Published in c. 1807.
For more information on the group Etnika contact; Etnika PO BOX 90 VALLETTA CMR 01 Email: andrew@etnika.com.mt Mobile: +356 99404134