Labyrinth 26 * Bağlama . Plectrum & Tuning

The bağlama is part of a rich musical tradition whose origins can be traced back to Central Asia. In Anatolia, this instrument developed into a diverse family of string instruments, including the cura, tambura, divan sazı, çöğür, üç telli, dede sazı, and ruzba. Each instrument possesses its own distinctive character, timbre, and expressive possibilities.

Within the bağlama tradition, region, tuning, and playing technique are inseparably linked. The chosen tuning (düzen) is closely connected to the musical language of a particular region, including its rhythms, melodic patterns, and poetic traditions. The various düzenler (tunings) give rise to specific performance practices. These regional and stylistic approaches, collectively known as yöresel tavır, form the living heart of the tradition.

In this Labyrinth workshop, Zeynel Demir explores these relationships through a hands-on approach. Together, we will discover the richness of the bağlama tradition, with particular attention to:

Regional playing styles (Yöresel Tavırlar), including Zeybek, Konya, Yozgat, Silifke, Kayseri, Karşılama, Orta Anadolu, Aşıklama, and Teke.

Important tunings (Düzenler), including Bozuk Düzen, Müstezat, Füdayda, Misket, Abdal, and Bağlama Düzeni.

A workshop conceived as an open sonic landscape, where technique, tradition, and personal expression meet.

Labyrinth Ghent is organised in collaboration with Labyrinth Crete, Codarts University of the Arts, and ArtConnects.