What they said about Vladimir Baragun

Vladimir Baragunov was a prominent figure in the Circassian world. His annotated musical texts are a monument for traditional Circassian music. He was a fine singer. However, in the history of Circassian musical culture he will be primarily remembered as the author of the multi-volume 'Circassians Folk-songs and Instrumental Tunes'.

Vladimir Baragunov had little choice but to conform to a Soviet Estrada aesthetic. It is a huge tribute to his talent and commitment that within the confines of that aesthetic he succeeded in preserving much of the authentic spirit of Circassian traditional music, both as collector and singer. Without his pioneering advances much of the post-Soviet revivalist enterprise would have been all but impossible.

Vladimir Baragun had an unusual baritone voice and possessed an extensive repertoire of both old and contemporary songs. He adored his Circassian people and always took part in events in his natal Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, especially linked to the tragedy of the Circassian people during the 100 Year War in the Caucasus, which resulted in the extermination and exile of the Circassian people.

I have highest respect for Baragun. An honorable elder, he has become a part of our Circassian singing cultural history. In my opinion, nobody else created such beauty as he did! For example, he collected Circassian folk songs and edited them, so that they would fit what today we consider as "classical" instruments as well as the Circassian song mentality! Furthermore, he performed those songs with his gorgeous unique voice! Vladimir Baragun will always occupy the most honorable place in my thoughts! God bless his soul! And let us to benefit from his happy legacy!

Vladimir Baragun was an accomplished singer, he collected, performed, and published Circassian folk songs. He was a kind and good-hearted person, a role model of a true Circassian man. God bless him.