The saz is a long-necked, fretted stringed instrument that is commonly used in Turkish, Azerbaijani and Kurdish music. The instrument is traditionally made of wood and has a long, fretless neck with a round or oval-shaped body. It is played by plucking the strings with a plectrum, and has a distinctive, warm and resonant sound.
The saz is believed to have originated in Central Asia and spread to the Middle East and Anatolia over time. It is considered to be one of the oldest instruments in the world and has played an important role in the music of the region for centuries. In Turkey, the saz is often associated with the traditional music of rural communities, and is also a popular instrument in popular music and classical music.
The saz comes in a variety of sizes and shapes, each with a different name, such as the "divan saz" or the "bağlama". The bağlama is the most common and popular among them. The number of strings on a saz can vary, but most have 7 strings, with 3 courses of 2 strings each. The tuning of the saz can also vary depending on the region and the musician's preference.
One of the most famous saz players is Tanburi Cemil Bey, who is considered to be the father of modern Turkish classical music. He was a virtuoso saz player, composer and teacher, and his playing was characterized by his technical mastery and emotional expressiveness.
In recent years, the saz has been gaining popularity outside of Turkey, as more and more musicians are discovering its unique sound and versatility. It is now used in a variety of musical styles, from traditional Turkish music to contemporary Western music.
In summary, the saz is a captivating and versatile instrument that has played an important role in the music of Turkey and the surrounding regions for centuries. With its distinctive sound and ability to produce a wide range of timbres, it continues to inspire musicians and audiences around the world.
BY H.G.P. ZARLI