Musical culture of Karachay Turks living in Izmir

The main feature that makes societies musically different from each other is the musical styles they have developed. Due to the nature of the concept of culture, Karachay music culture has connections and similarities with all music cultures in its immediate surroundings. However, unlike the music of other societies living in the same geography, Karachay music can preserve its originality as well as these cultural similarities. An interdisciplinary approach covering the fields of ethnomusicology, sociology, anthropology and history was used in our research. Izmir, one of the provinces where Karachay Turks live, was chosen as the research area. In the study, migrations, cultures, music and dances of Karachay Turks living in Izmir were examined based on the literature, observations and interviews. As a result of the research, it was determined that the Karachay Turks living in Izmir tried to transfer their culture, traditions, music and dance from generation to generation. While doing this, it has been determined that they organize activities through associations. However, it was seen that the folk songs and dances of the Karachay Turks were performed in these events. On the other hand, rhythmic and modal features used in musical works and folk dances are included and it is revealed that these elements are in harmony with the themes of the works. It has been determined that the instruments used in the music of Karachay Turks are "accordion", "bristle kobuz", "sıbızgı". It has been seen that the dances of the Karachay Turks are generally performed in pairs or groups and are performed in a lively manner with rhythmic steps. It has been determined that they perform the Caucasian rhythmic structure with their unique motif structure and instruments. Keywords: Izmir, Karachays, Karachay Turks, Music, Culture