The " Bağlama Metodu " by Arif Sağ and Erdal Erzincan is considered the most authoritative and comprehensive guide for mastering the Turkish long-necked lute. This two-volume set bridges traditional apprentice-style learning with a modern academic approach, making it a cornerstone for serious students of Turkish Folk Music. 📖 Key Features & Structure The method is divided into two distinct volumes covering over 500 pages of instruction. Volume 1: Foundations & Exercises Focuses on the tezeneli (plectrum) technique. Includes foundational exercises and a selected repertoire. Introduces typical style elements and basic positions. Volume 2: Advanced Techniques Covers scales (diziler) and advanced positions . Explores different modes (makams) and complex rhythmic patterns. Details the tezenesiz (şelpe) fingerstyle technique, which Erdal Erzincan is world-renowned for. 💡 Notable Characteristics Scientific Approach: Unlike basic guides, this method is "scientifically oriented" and documentation-heavy. Difficulty Level: It assumes basic musical knowledge. Beginners may find it challenging without a teacher as it doesn't explain basic note lengths or values. Bilingual: The books are written in both Turkish and English , making them accessible to international students. Multimedia Support: Many students use accompanying video lessons on YouTube or community groups to practice the specific numbered exercises (e.g., Alıştırma 64) found in the text. 🛒 Where to Find It While "extra quality" PDF versions are often sought online, the physical copies are valued for their high-quality 90gr ivory paper and durable thread binding. New Copies: Available through specialized retailers like Pan Kitap and NotaCini . Second-Hand: Frequently listed on platforms like Nadir Kitap or Biblio . If you'd like, I can help you: Find video tutorials for specific exercises in the book. Explain the differences between the Tezeneli and Şelpe techniques. Identify the best Bağlama types (short vs. long neck) to use with this method. Which part of the Bağlama journey are you currently on? Arif SaÄŸ and Erdal Erzincan's BaÄŸlama Method
The Arif Sağ and Erdal Erzincan Bağlama Method (Bağlama Metodu) is widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive and authoritative academic resources for learning the bağlama, a central instrument in Turkish folk music. Published by Pan Yayıncılık , this two-volume work bridges the gap between traditional master-apprentice (usta-çırak) oral traditions and modern academic music education. Structure and Content of the Method The method is divided into two distinct volumes designed to be studied in parallel: Volume 1: Exercises and Repertoire Focuses on the Tezeneli technique (using a plectrum) and introduces fundamental Şelpe (fingerstyle) techniques. Contains over 100 exercises specifically designed to improve finger dexterity and rhythmic accuracy. Includes a selected repertoire that reflects the technical nuances of the instrument. Volume 2: Scales and Positions Provides a detailed exploration of positions on the fretboard. Covers various Turkish folk music scales ( makams ) and modes. Documents different tuning systems (düzen), such as the Bağlama, Bozuk, Misket, and Müstezat tunings. Pedagogical Approach This method is noted for its academic and scientific orientation . Unlike beginner books that simplify the learning process, this work: Requires Prerequisite Knowledge : It is often recommended for intermediate players rather than absolute beginners, as it assumes some basic knowledge of musical notation and instrument handling. Bilingual Instruction : The books are printed in both Turkish and English , making them accessible to international students interested in Turkish folk music. Multimedia Integration : The method is supported by a series of instructional videos, often found on platforms like YouTube , where Erdal Erzincan demonstrates the exercises with a metronome. Significance in Turkish Music The collaboration between Arif Sağ , a legendary master known for modernizing bağlama performance, and Erdal Erzincan , a leading figure in advanced Şelpe techniques, ensures the method preserves the "originality" of the instrument while providing a structured path for students. It is a staple in music conservatories and for dedicated students aiming to reach a professional or academic level of performance. For those looking for physical copies, they are available through retailers like Kitapyurdu or Trendyol . Arif Sağ - Erdal Erzincan - Bağlama Metodu (2 cilt
Review: Bağlama Metodu – Arif Sağ & Erdal Erzincan The Definitive Standard for Traditional Bağlama Education Overview In the realm of Turkish folk music, few names command as much respect as Arif Sağ and Erdal Erzincan. Their collaborative method book, commonly referred to as the "Arif Sağ - Erdal Erzincan Bağlama Metodu," is widely regarded not just as a book, but as the conservatory standard for learning the instrument. While physical copies are treasured, the "Extra Quality" PDF version has become a highly sought-after resource for students worldwide due to its portability and clarity. The Pedagogical Approach What sets this method apart from the myriad of tutorial books available on the market is its academic yet accessible approach. 1. Roots in Tradition (The "Dede" Style): Unlike methods that prioritize Western staff notation or simplified pop melodies, this book is rooted deeply in the Alevi-Bektaşi musical tradition. It focuses on the "Dede" style of playing, emphasizing the spiritual and technical depth required to play pieces by legendary poets like Pir Sultan Abdal and Aşık Veysel. It teaches the student to play with "heart" rather than just mechanical precision. 2. The "Boğum" (Node) Technique: The book excels in teaching the boğum technique—the unique articulation of the bağlama where notes are struck and dampened to create a rhythmic, percussive quality. The exercises are designed to help the student master the coordination between the right hand (the tezene/plectrum) and the left hand (finger pressure on the frets). Content and Structure The book is structured progressively, though it assumes the student has a basic desire to learn and perhaps a teacher to guide them through the nuances.
Introduction to Makam: The method introduces the concept of Makam (melodic modes) in a practical way. Rather than dry theory, it teaches modes like Hüseyni, Kürdi, and Segah through actual folk songs. Notation: It utilizes a specialized notation system that bridges standard staff notation with the specific needs of the bağlama, often including position markers that help the student navigate the fretboard. Repertoire: The song selection is impeccable. It includes classic works that every bağlama player must know, serving as both technical exercises and cultural education. baglama metodu arif sag erdal erzincan pdf extra quality
The "Extra Quality" PDF Experience The search term "Extra Quality" usually implies a specific type of high-resolution digital scan. In the context of this book, the quality of the PDF is paramount for several reasons:
Visual Clarity of Musical Notation: Standard scans often blur the staff lines or the intricate fingering numbers. A high-quality PDF ensures that the notes, accidentals, and rhythmic values are crisp and legible on tablets and large monitors. This is crucial for reading complex pieces without eye strain. Print Readiness: An "extra quality" PDF allows students to print specific pages for practice stands without the "pixelated" look of lower-resolution scans. The contrast is usually adjusted perfectly for sheet music. Searchability: High-quality digital versions often come with OCR (Optical Character Recognition), allowing students to search for specific song titles or keys instantly— a major advantage over physical books during practice sessions.
Pros and Cons Pros:
Authority: Written by two absolute masters of the instrument. This is the "source" material. Technique: Unparalleled focus on the authentic bağlama sound and articulation. Cultural Depth: Teaches the history and soul of the music alongside the mechanics. Digital Convenience: The PDF format allows for instant access, zooming in on difficult measures, and annotation on tablets.
Cons:
Language Barrier: The original text is in Turkish. While the music is universal, non-Turkish speakers may miss out on the theoretical explanations and cultural context provided in the text. Not for Absolute Beginners (Self-Taught): This is not a "Bağlama for Dummies" book. It moves quickly. A complete beginner attempting to use this PDF without a teacher might find the learning curve steep compared to video tutorials. Tuning Differences: The book assumes standard tunings used in Turkish conservatories. Beginners accustomed to different regional tunings might initially be confused. The " Bağlama Metodu " by Arif Sağ
Final Verdict The "Bağlama Metodu" by Arif Sağ and Erdal Erzincan is a masterpiece of music education. For the serious student of the bağlama, it is an indispensable tool. Obtaining an "Extra Quality" PDF is highly recommended over lower-quality versions because the intricacies of the musical notation demand high resolution to be read accurately. Whether you are a conservatory student or an enthusiast looking to ground your technique in the authentic Turkish tradition, this method is the gold standard. It does not just teach you how to play the notes; it teaches you how to make the instrument speak. Rating: 9.5/10
Arif Sağ & Erdal Erzincan Bağlama Metodu (2-Volume Set) is widely regarded by musicians as the "gold standard" or baseline for serious learners of the Turkish baglama. American Heritage Education Foundation, Inc. Book Overview & Educational Quality Published by Pan Yayıncılık , this comprehensive 542-page work is designed for both tezeneli (plectrum) and tezenesiz (fingerstyle/şelpe) techniques. Academic Approach : Reviewers from note the method is scientifically oriented. It assumes basic knowledge of musical notation; beginners might find it challenging without a teacher's guidance. Structured Learning : Focuses on exercises and a foundational repertoire. : Deep dives into Turkish musical modes (makams), positions, and advanced scales. Dual-Language : The text is provided in both Turkish and English , making it accessible to international students. Multimedia Support : While the physical book is the primary source, many students use supplemental instructional video playlists on YouTube that cover specific exercises from the text. Availability and "Extra Quality" PDFs Regarding "extra quality" PDF versions: Baglama Metodu / Baglama Method (2 Cilt) - Goodreads