The thematic analysis of bozlaks: A comparative study of variations in Adana and Sivas

This study aims to examine the bozlak musical tradition specific to the regions of Sivas and Adana in terms of thematic, melodic, rhythmic, and lyrical characteristics. The research adopts a comparative approach to analyze the influence of both regions' cultural and social structures on this musical form. Accordingly, in order to understand the place of bozlak within the traditional music repertoire and its representation in cultural memory, a comprehensive literature review was conducted. In addition, the dataset was enriched through field studies, interviews with local musicians, and analysis of repertory materials. A qualitative research design was employed in the study, using document analysis as the primary data collection method. The collected data were analyzed using the thematic analysis method. In the analysis of bozlak examples, both the lyrical content and the melodic structures were examined separately; the musical presentation of the themes was evaluated alongside their semantic dimensions. When examining the modal characteristics of bozlak performances from the Sivas and Adana regions, it was observed that modes such as Kürdi, Muhayyer, Muhayyer Kürdi, Hüseyni, and Gerdaniye are prominent in both regions. However, Adana presents a broader diversity, especially with its inclusion of the Kürdi and Gerdaniye modes. In terms of rhythmic structures, bozlaks from both Sivas and Adana predominantly feature free rhythm (non-metric forms). Melodic structure analysis revealed that Sivas bozlaks tend to follow a free-flowing and undulating melodic line, whereas Adana bozlaks exhibit a more structured and ascending melodic contour.. From a thematic perspective, Sivas bozlak songs address more dramatic and intense subjects such as heroism, resistance, and separation, while Adana bozlak songs cover a broader thematic spectrum, including love, longing for nature, and separation. In terms of lyrical content, Sivas bozlak songs favor deep narrative structures and a dramatic storytelling style, whereas Adana bozlak songs adopt a more concise, emotive, and straightforward expression. The findings of the study reveal that the bozlak traditions of both regions offer a rich cultural and musical heritage and reflect the historical, emotional, and social structures of local communities. Beyond a musicological comparison of Sivas and Adana bozlak songs, the research contributes to a better understanding of the cultural significance and place of this genre in social memory. Accordingly, various suggestions are presented for the preservation, intergenerational transmission, and international promotion of bozlak. This study aims to provide a new perspective in folk music research and to develop a framework for understanding the position of traditional forms of Turkish music within modern culture.