The book is a new look at a unique phenomenon of Ukrainian culture - the activities of traveling old musicians. Based on many sources, the author examines the phenomenon of old age in the context of European history, shows its high spiritual mission in the life of Ukrainians for several centuries. The reader will learn about the structure of professional associations of traveling kobzars, bandura players and lyre players, the system of their training, will discover the mysterious "Ustian books". Much space in the book is devoted to the reconstruction of ancient musical instruments and ways to play them. The publication contains rich illustrative material, musical samples of works from the old man's repertoire. Designed for art critics, ethnographers, historians, philologists and anyone interested in the history of Ukrainian culture.
