Byzantine music is an important part of the past of the Romanian spirituality, art and culture. Research undertaken during the last half century on musical manuscripts and rare books revealed the great contribution that Romanians had over the centuries to preserve the Byzantine tradition. This paper comprises information on the main reference points of the Byzantine presence in the Romanian culture, highlighting the contribution of this region to the survival of the Byzantine spirit till modern times and the indissoluble link between the Byzantine tradition of and local church chanting.

Keywords: Byzantine music, musical manuscripts, church chanting, musical education, Dimitrie Cunţanu

ELENA CHIRCEV