Author(s): Fulya Doğruel / Language(s): Turkish
Issue: 41/2023
This study examines the legendary voyage of the ancient and authentic Kabak Kemane (Gourd Kemane) instrument played in Turkish folk music from past to present, the settings of its performance, its artistic and technical advancement, and its perception in society. The Kemane is an important cultural symbol brought to Anatolia by Turkish tribes and has been perpetuated, particularly in the Yörük culture of the Teke area. It is one of the most prominent stringed instruments, and it is an integral part of the horse-drawn nomadic culture. For many years, the Kemane has been lost in traditional culture and is a neglected subject in scholarly circles. However, when the Turkish Radio and Television Corporation began to promote the Kemane, it became visible on the screens again, and in recent years, academic studies on the Kemane have surged. Artists, instrument producers, lecturers, and conservatoire students providing Turkish folk music education play, develop, and teach the Kemane. The studies on the Kemane primarily focus on its social and musical aspects, its construction techniques, training methods, change, and development potential as well as its applicability to the wider musical universe. Thus, the instrument’s structure and performance characteristics, as well as its settings and repertoire, have evolved. These studies have enabled The Kabak Kemane to move from the local to the national and international arena. The effort to keep the Kemane alive and recognise its worth in the context of social culture and the music universe is critical in terms of passing on not just the Kabak Kemane but also the Folk Music tradition to future generations. Further institutional and social awareness as well as support is needed in this regard. The data of this qualitative study, which aims to contribute to the recognition of the Kabak Kemane, is based on a literature review of the Kabak Kemane instrument and in-depth interviews with six musicians and artists who play this instrument.
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