Search - Sultan of the Ottoman Empire Abdulaziz, Bayezid II, Korkut :: Lalezar, Vol.1: Music of the Sultans

This first of four CDs devoted to the music of Turkey's Ottoman Empire is a sampler of art pieces written by eight sultans over a span of five centuries. The rulers had vastly different temperaments and frames of reference, but all utilized the same demanding tonal modes, rhythms, and methods of improvisation as did the court composers they patronized. Male and female vocal solos and duets are supported by a consort consisting of a kanun (plucked zither), ney (woodwind), tanbur (lute with four sets of double strings), kemence (upright, three-stringed fiddle), and percussion. One highlight is "Sevkutarab Kâr," the first recording ever of a hauntingly erotic ballad by Selim III (assassinated 1808). The works are stately and refined, yet rhythmically intense; they often smolder with suppressed longing and passion. This collection is especially recommended for fans of Arabic and Iranian classical styles, but devotees of Western medieval music will also be intrigued. --Christina Roden