String Instruments in Turkish Folk Music: History, Types, and Characteristics

Turkish folk music holds a significant place in the world music literature with its rich cultural heritage and diverse instruments. In this article, we will delve into the history, types, construction techniques, and characteristic features of the string instruments used in Turkish folk music.

History

The history of string instruments used in Turkish folk music stretches across a wide geography from Central Asia to Anatolia. During the migrations of Turks from Central Asia to Anatolia, music was one of the essential cultural elements they carried with them. Throughout these migrations, string instruments evolved as they interacted with different cultures in new regions, eventually transforming into their current forms.

Types of String Instruments

The most well-known string instruments in Turkish folk music include the bağlama, kemençe, oud, cümbüş, tanbur, and lavta. Each instrument is distinguished by its unique construction techniques, playing styles, and sound characteristics.

1. Bağlama
   • History and Origin: The bağlama is the evolved form of the kopuz, brought by Turks migrating from Central Asia to Anatolia. It has taken various names and forms in different regions of Anatolia.
   • Construction Technique: The bağlama is typically made from mulberry wood and consists of three main parts: the bowl (body), neck, and strings. The bowl can be made using either the carved or glued technique.
   • Playing Style and Usage: The bağlama can be played with a plectrum or fingers. It comes in various types: short-neck bağlama, long-neck bağlama, cura, and tambura, each used for different musical needs.
2. Kemençe
   • History and Origin: The kemençe is a traditional instrument of the Black Sea region. Its origins trace back to the two- and three-stringed bowed instruments of Central Asian Turkic communities.
   • Construction Technique: The kemençe is generally made from mulberry or walnut wood. It has three main parts: the body, neck, and strings.
   • Playing Style and Usage: The kemençe is played with a bow, especially in Black Sea folk songs and dances. The strings are played by touching them with fingers while the bow is drawn across them.
3. Oud
   • History and Origin: The oud originated in the Arab world and became a significant instrument in Ottoman music.
   • Construction Technique: The oud is usually made from mulberry, walnut, or mahogany wood. It consists of the body, neck, and strings, typically numbering between 11 and 13.
   • Playing Style and Usage: The oud is played with a plectrum and is widely used in Turkish art and classical music. Its sound is deep and resonant, giving it a rich tone.
4. Cümbüş
   • History and Origin: The cümbüş was developed by Zeynel Abidin Cümbüş in the early 20th century. It has established itself as a modern instrument in Turkish music.
   • Construction Technique: The cümbüş features a metal body and a skin membrane. The strings are typically made of steel.
   • Playing Style and Usage: The cümbüş is played with a plectrum and is favored in outdoor events due to its loud sound.
5. Tanbur
   • History and Origin: The tanbur became popular during the Ottoman period and has roots in Central Asian and Persian musical cultures.
   • Construction Technique: The tanbur is generally made from mulberry or walnut wood. It has a long neck and a wide body.
   • Playing Style and Usage: The tanbur is played with a plectrum and is used mainly in classical Turkish music for solo performances.
6. Lavta
   • History and Origin: The lavta was widely used during the Ottoman Empire. It originated in the Arab world and developed in the Ottoman territories over time.
   • Construction Technique: The lavta is made from mulberry or mahogany wood. It has a wide body, a short neck, and strings usually made from gut.
   • Playing Style and Usage: The lavta is played with a plectrum and holds an important place in Turkish art music.

Examples

To better understand the use of string instruments in Turkish folk music, let’s consider a few examples:

1. Bağlama in Aşık Veysel Şatıroğlu’s “Uzun İnce Bir Yoldayım”
   • In this song, Aşık Veysel’s deep and emotional performance with the bağlama highlights the instrument’s significance and importance in Turkish folk music.
2. Karadeniz Kemençesi in Kazım Koyuncu’s “Didou Nana”
   • The energetic and lively sound of the Karadeniz kemençe in Kazım Koyuncu’s song showcases its regional musical prominence and characteristic sound.
3. Oud in Tanburi Cemil Bey’s Taksims
   • Tanburi Cemil Bey’s improvisations with the oud demonstrate the oud’s richness and depth in Turkish art music.

Purchasing String Instruments

String instruments used in Turkish folk music have a rich historical background and cultural heritage. Each instrument, with its unique sound characteristics and playing techniques, is an indispensable element of Turkish music. These instruments are not only essential for music but also form a crucial part of Turkish culture. Learning and performing these string instruments play a significant role in transmitting cultural heritage to future generations. For those looking to acquire these instruments and immerse themselves in this rich musical culture, Oud and More Music offers a reliable shopping experience.