The cultural significance of the Turkish 9 rhythm: Timing, tradition, and identity

Abstract

Folk music throughout Anatolia and Thrace contains significant information about a performers social experience and background.  In Turkey social information is commonly communicated through rhythm. Types of traditional music, particularly types with specific rhythmic structures and patterns, are often indicative of an ethnic or regional Turkish identity, an origin or affiliation. The 9 beat rhythmic structures are very common in the Folk Music of Anatolia. They are seen nearly everywhere in different arrangements and tempo values.

In this article I will discuss the 9 beat time signature and specific 9/8 timed music belonging to and performed by groups that are often considered somewhat marginal in the contemporary Turkish Republic.  For example, distinct types of rhythms and music (and corresponding social dances) are performed among defined Turkish identity groups such as Alevi (9/8), Zeybek (9/4 or 9/2), Yörük (9/16), and Rom (9/8).  I will pay special attention to nine rhythms and discuss in more detail how each unique rhythmic pattern communicates a great deal of social and regional knowledge in Turkey.