Buy Cura: The Small Voice of Anatolia

Every corner of Anatolia is like a mosaic adorned with deep cultural richness and historical texture. Each piece in this mosaic carries its own unique story, culture, and music. However, there are certain sounds that resonate not just as music within this mosaic, but also as carriers of heritage and expressions of a soul. It is precisely at this point that the “Cura,” which we can describe as the small voice of Anatolia, stands out as one of the most special instruments.

The History of Cura

Cura is perhaps one of the most authentic instruments of Turkish folk music. Its history dates back a long way, and it exists in various variations throughout Anatolia. Typically featuring three strings, the cura has a slim, elongated body, and its strings are usually made of nylon or silk. Initially widespread in the rural areas of Anatolia, the cura gradually began to be loved and played in urban areas as well. Cura is not just an instrument; it is also a means of expressing the emotions of the people living in the depths of Anatolia. Every note played carries the traces of thousands of years of history and culture. It reflects human emotions such as sadness, joy, love, and separation in their purest form. In this sense, the cura is like a small mirror of Anatolia.

Today, the cura is still kept alive and played with love in many corners of Anatolia. Its sounds are heard at traditional weddings, in the hands of street musicians, in concert halls, and studios. However, the real legacy of this small instrument lies in the souls of those who play it. Every master of the cura tells their own story, their own emotions through this instrument, and thus, the cura maintains the unifying power of Anatolia.

What is Cura?

• Size and Structure:
  • Cura is the smallest member of the bağlama family.
  • It is commonly used in the Mediterranean region.
  • It has a pear-shaped body with frets made of gut or reed.
  • Similar to the bağlama, it has geared tuners, but it is smaller in size.

• Sound and Playing Technique:
  • Cura produces a higher-pitched sound compared to the saz.
  • It is played by striking the strings with a plectrum (mızrap) or fingers.
  • Typically played alongside other saz instruments.
  • Well-suited for lively melodies such as dance tunes.

• Tuning and Arrangement:
  • Cura is tuned to an octave higher than the bağlama using the same tuning method.
  • The cura arrangement involves lowering the pitch of the top string to match the middle string. This arrangement is commonly used in Konya and its surroundings.

• How to Play Cura:
  • Cura is usually played while sitting.
  • Melodies are produced by striking the strings with fingers or a plectrum.
  • It is frequently used in folk music and türküler (traditional Turkish songs).
  • Listening to Anatolia’s legendary türküler accompanied by the cura is a great pleasure.

• Buying a Cura:
  • Since it is a traditional instrument, cura is not widely available everywhere. Only oudandmoremusic.com 🙂

• Embrace the Rich Musical Heritage:
  • Cura is an essential part of Anatolia’s musical legacy.
  • Whether you’re a player or a listener, the cura’s enchanting melodies are sure to captivate you.
  • If you’re considering playing the cura, consider taking lessons from a saz master to get to know this beautiful instrument up close. 😊🎵