Ottoman Music Ensemble

Stanford's Ottoman Music Ensemble introduces select music played in the present day that hearkens back to musical practices from diverse communities of Ottoman Constantinople or Istanbul. Much of this music has now fallen under the guise of Turkish art, folk, or classical music. Through oral transmission and collective practice, we will attune our voices, instruments, and ears to hear and play select Ottoman pieces. Ensemble members will additionally be introduced to the microtonal (makam) music theory system and to the arts of solo improvisation (taksim) during the course. No previous experience required. The course culminates in a final end-of-quarter concert.