Azerbaijani culture and history are rich and multifaceted, leaving a significant mark across various fields of art, including music. Mugham is a true gem of Azerbaijani musical tradition. This unique musical genre has its roots in Eastern musical culture and has been known since the early medieval period. Legends and myths from Eastern cultures often mention musical wonders, such as the magical singing of the mythical bird Simurg.
Mugham is distinguished by its improvisation based on specific mugham modes, which makes its performance particularly expressive. It can be performed in its entirety (dastgah) or in parts (khanende) and may be accompanied by instruments such as the tar and kamancha, or presented as solo instrumental pieces. The music of mugham deeply affects the listener's inner world, imbuing it with spiritual purity and grandeur, and serves as a bridge between antiquity and modernity.
In Azerbaijan, there are seven main mugham modes: "Rast," "Shur," "Segah," "Chahargah," "Bayati-Shiraz," "Shushtar," and "Humayun," as well as three auxiliary modes: "Shahnaz," "Sarandj," and "Chaharga." During the Soviet era, mugham ensembles continued to perform classical pieces, though cleansed of mystical elements. Typically, an ensemble consisted of three performers: a tar player, a kamancha player, and a khanende, who also played percussion. Azerbaijani music publishers actively released recordings of mugham and khanende songs. Mugham has been preserved to this day thanks to Uzeyir Hajibeyov, who transcribed this music into notation.
In 2003, mugham was recognized as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, highlighting its exceptional value and influence on global musical culture. This ancient tradition is not only a form of sound art but also a living testament to Azerbaijan's and the Caucasus's rich cultural heritage. Mugham connects the past with the present, bridging generations and peoples through the universal language of music and poetry. Listening to mugham allows us to feel the rhythm of ancient civilizations, their experiences and dreams reflected in every sound. It is not merely music but a true treasure that continues to inspire and captivate people around the world, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and souls of those who experience its magic.
