The use of aksak (limping) rhythms for Fine Arts high school piano education and beginner level aksak rhythm etudes and practice proposals: Van province sample

In this study which is prepared as a master's thesis, the beginner level aksak (limping) rhythm etudes and exercises have been written for the purpose of using in piano trainings in Fine Arts Schools in Turkey. Piano has been taught as a common instrument in all institutions which give music education, and it is also used in lessons such as music theory and harmony. In this research the usage of aksak (limping) rhythms in the piano books of Fine Arts Schools have been analyzed. Aksak (limping) rhythms are one of the most characteristic features of Turkish Music which are used by contemporary polyphonic Turkish music composers. Many composers have contributed to the repertoire with their works written about aksak (limping) rhythms. Realizing the incompleteness of the beginner level of aksak (limping) rhythm works and etudes in particular, the researcher has tried to establish a studying discipline about aksak (limping) rhythms which have an important place in Turkish music. For the purpose of writing works and etudes which will make the teaching of aksak (limping) rhythms easier, prestudy exercises and etudes have been prepared. These etudes have been conferred with four piano teachers working in Van Tuşba Fine Arts School. In accordance with the suggestions taken from these teachers, pioneer exercises on the ground level have been written to these etudes. Exercises have been diversified by the researcher using different rhythmic combinations, and educators have been asked for their opinions. As a result of the obtained data, educators stated that both when they were a student and now as they study with their students, they have always suffered for finding proper works and etudes of aksak (limping) rhythms which suit their level. Additionally, they stated that there are some issues in dealing with aksak (limping) rhythms and that there is a necessity for etudes and works which are intended for these issues. They also mentioned that the number and content of etudes and exercises in the piano books of Fine Arts Schools are not sufficient. Educators expressed their view that the etudes and exercises written by the researcher for piano, which are the subject of this thesis, are in the beginner level and they are appropriate in terms of technic and use.