Greek Pontic Music

This course will focus on the music of Pontos and the Black Sea region (Karadeniz). We will work on phrasing, ornamentation, intervals and improvisation (taksim). We will also look at the rhythmic elements of this music, and the makams (modes) used.    This course is for students who are comfortable on their instruments, able to focus on the stylistic elements and repertoire specific to Pontic music, which is typically performed on the Pontic lyra. We will learn common songs from this repertoire, including “Si Trihas to Gefyr” and “Akritas.” We will also look at melodic phrasing and other characteristics of the Ussak and Hicaz makams. Student requirements: Instrumental technique: intermediate Western theory: any level Modal music theory: any level Sight reading: basic Transposition: any level Learning by ear: intermediate

Student requirements:
Instrumental technique: intermediate
Western theory: basic
Modal music theory: basic
Sight reading: basic
Transposition: any level
Learning by ear: intermediate
Composition: any level
Improvisation: any level