An Analysis of Abdi Coşkun's taksims in terms of maqam and structure

The Taksim form is a type of composition in which the performer expresses their emotions based on their knowledge and skills, performed extemporaneously and without rhythm. For this reason, it is a form that requires mastery in execution. Examining the taksims performed by Abdi Coşkun, one of the significant performers and teachers of Turkish Music on the tanbur will contribute to a better understanding of our music. In this study, the focus will be on how Abdi Coşkun known for his distinctive style, processes musical modes (maqams) and constructs his compositions within taksims. As part of the research, a literature review was conducted to gather fundamental information relevant to the study. Subsequently, the taksims performed by Abdi Coşkun were investigated and determined from which three were selected by means of random method. The taksims that selected were listened then transcribed into notation. These notations were digitized using the Mus2 software. Using Mutlu Torun's method of musical analysis, the taksims were structurally analyzed by dividing them into periods, phrases, and phrase fragments. Later, a modal (maqams) analysis was carried out, and an attempt was made to reach a conclusion.