Scan 112
The American history and encyclopedia of music .., 1908
12 lines. Read by computer on 9 September 2026. No printed page number was found. See the scan on archive.org.
1only one major key, viz., the Rast (the key of G major). It is an interesting fact that no major key is used in the strict "à la turca," except the key of G major. Probably the construction of the musical instruments, originally used here, strikes out all possibilities of transposition.
3The exact number of different keys in actual use is difficult to estimate. Taking, for instance, the keys represented in the family of G, we find one major (G major) and more than twenty varieties of minor scales, all having G as the keynote, yet possessing characteristic sounds of difference.
5The sad, the plaintive, the pathetic! This is what the Oriental feels, seeks and praises in music. The sadder the piece, the better satisfied is the fettered Oriental heart. These plaintive, strange tunes played in unison are too monotonous for European ears, as well as for those of many refined natives who have studied European music thoroughly. Yet for their admirers they are the highest expression of musical art.
7Larger forms of "à la turca" composition consist of several movements. But during performances of such music the cycle may be, and generally is, completed by the works of other composers. A Fasl, or musical cycle, consists of an elaborate introduction, usually preceded by a short cadence produced by one of the instruments, which is followed by vocal and instrumental solos; the vocal soloist generally shaking the tambourine.
9Love is the subject of their song; usually love which is unapproachable or lost. Frequently, anguish of an unfortunate, rejected lover is pictured with sighs and deep pathos. Sometimes, it is true, gayer strains are mingled with the sad ones. Naturally, such extended forms of composition are performed by professional musicians.
11The people, on the other hand, have their own popular songs. Here, too, love is the dominating theme. But poetical beauty or literary value is not often apparent in them. No matter what the content of the verses, a rich rhyme is all that is required.
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