Turkish Art Music: The Elegance and Grace of the Palace

Also known as Classical Turkish Music, Turkish Art Music (TSM) is a profound musical tradition with a deep aesthetic understanding, rooted in the Ottoman Empire's palace circles and intellectual heritage. It is more than just a genre of music; it is a unique art form that combines the poetic power of Divan literature, the philosophical depth of Sufism, and the sophistication of urban culture in its melodies. At Peska Sanat, we present this precious heritage to you by preserving its authentic structure and blending it with modern educational methods.

What Does Turkish Art Music Education at Peska Sanat Cover?

Our education program aims for much more than just memorizing a song. We adopt a holistic approach for you to understand the spirit of the music, grasp its theoretical foundation, and gain complete mastery over your instrument or voice. In our classes, our students achieve competence in the following areas:

• Theoretical Knowledge: They learn the makam and usul systems that form the foundation of TSM, music notation and solfege, and the microtonal "koma" sounds that differ from Western music.
• Vocal (Şan) Technique: They work on proper diaphragm usage, breath control, and the laryngeal and ornamental techniques (nağme, çarpma) specific to TSM.
• Instrument Mastery: They acquire performance skills on a TSM instrument such as the oud, kanun, ney, tanbur, or violin, in a manner true to that instrument's technique and spirit.
• Piece Analysis and Knowledge of Forms: They recognize musical forms like Peşrev, Saz Semaisi, Kâr, Beste, and Şarkı, and they analyze the works of great composers both theoretically and practically.
• Repertoire: They develop their musical memory and performance skills by working on a rich TSM repertoire suitable for every level.

Why Should You Learn Turkish Art Music?

• Turkish Art Music education is a journey of personal development beyond musical skills. With this training;
• The sensitivity of your ear increases, and you learn to distinguish different sound intervals (komas).
• You enrich your cultural knowledge by establishing a deep connection between history, literature, and music.
• You gain mental discipline and the ability to focus through its structure, which requires intense concentration.
• You develop your aesthetic taste by engaging with a sophisticated and elegant branch of art.

Education Methods for All Ages and Levels

Whether you have never had any music education before or you have a certain musical background, there is definitely a program for you at Peska Sanat. With one-on-one private lessons or boutique group classes opened according to your level, we ensure that every student progresses most efficiently towards their own goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is TSM difficult to learn? 
Like any art form, TSM requires effort and patience. However, with the right instructor and regular practice, it is enjoyable and possible to learn for people of all ages and levels.

Which instrument should I start with for the lessons? 
This depends entirely on your personal taste and your ear's inclination. During trial lessons, our instructors will guide you in choosing the instrument whose sound you like the most and which is most suitable for you.

Can I start TSM lessons without knowing music notation? 
Yes, you can. Our education program includes music notation and theory from the very beginning. We have beginner classes specially designed for students with no prior music knowledge.