Music of Turkey

Language: Turkish, with Arabic and Kurdish minorities Ottoman dynasty: one of most powerful states in world from 15 th -16 th centuries. Turkish Republic establ (first president Ataturk, secular state, adopted Latin alphabet): period of Westernization, elevation of folk music

Turkish Music Classical music: arose with and associated with Ottoman elite Fasil: a suite of pieces in concert of classical music, all in one makam, beginning with improvised taksim

Musical Terms Makam: system of pitches similar to Dastgah (inlcuding quarter tones) Usul: system of rhythmic cycles (40-50); each has name indicated on music score (ex. Semai = ¾). Examples: 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 6/4, 28/4, 32/4, 120/4 Taksim: instrumental improvisation, similar to Persian avaz

Turkish Instruments Saz Zurna Darbukka Oud Kanun

Sufi (Mevlevi) Music Sufism: religious mystic tradition within Islam. Turkish Sufi sect of Mevlevi brotherhood: “whirling dervishes.” Follow tradition of 13 th cent. Persian mystic theologian Rumi Sema ritual: music and dance Rumi manuscript

Sema Ritual Instruments: ney flute, kanun, kamanche, cymbals, oud, bowed lute Use spinning dance as form of meditation and symbolic transformation. Seven parts, each with symbolic significance (spinning dance begins in 5 th part) Involves verses from the Koran, praise poetry, ghazal, chanting, solo instrumental sections (improvised and composed). Tempi begin slow, increase during ceremony.