If a single instrument was to represent Turkish folk music it would have to be he baglama. There is no region, no village in Anatolia which is not familiar with this string instrument. It is descended from the kopuz, which is frequently mentioned in the sagas of Dede Korkut, dating back to the 8th century.

Baglamas are tuned differently in different regions of Turkey and the structure of he folk song played and the strokes of the plectrum affect the tuning system.

It is thought that the ney was first used by Summerians beginning from 5000 BC. The oldest information about the instrument remaining from 2800-3000 BC and todeay it is exhibited at the University of Philadelphia in the USA:

The instrument was probably played in religious ceremonies. When Turkey became Moslem, they began to use it. After the 13th century it was a symbol of the Islamic mystical music. The great poet and saint Mevlana Celaleddin iRumi played an important role in making this instrument a holy symbol.

Explanation of Usuls (Rhythms), classification and timing.
Language: English

VCD makes it easy to follow the exercises. In no time you will be another Misirli Ahmet, or Khamees Henkesh!

The kaval is one of the oldest instruments in human history. The name "kaval" is derived from the word "kav", which means hollow in Turkish. Traditionally, the kaval is made from plum wood. The kaval has seven holes in front and one hole in the back.

The kaval uses a chromatic scale, meaning it has semi-tones. It has a span of two and a half or three octaves.

It is believed that the best ouds are made of rose, mahogany, xylobalsamum and ebony woods.

The colorful and charming staging makes learning easy. Each step and movement is clearly explained and demonstrated.

A definite 'must-have' for dancers of all levels, whether you are just learning, or a seasoned dancer keeping up her training.

Hilary is an internationally acclaimed bellydancer based in the UK. Her performances have taken her to many exotic places where she has acquired extensive first-hand knowledge about the dance.