@article{article_1703888, title={The role of music in Azerbaijani folk theatre performances}, journal={Online Journal of Music Sciences}, volume={10}, pages={746–761}, year={2025}, DOI={10.31811/ojomus.1703888}, author={Huseynova, Rukhsara and Mammadova, Gunay and Maharramova, Inara and Gasimova, Aynur}, keywords={Azerbaycan, dans, halk gösterileri, müzik folkloru, Nevruz bayramı, şarkı}, abstract={The theatre art of the Azerbaijani people constitutes a significant part of their centuries-old and rich cultural heritage. As an integral element of the nation’s spiritual wealth, this art form has evolved, enriched by a variety of ceremonies, games, and performances. The present article specifically investigates the types of Azerbaijani folk theatre and the role of music employed in these performances. The primary aim of the study is to analyze the characteristics and functions of music within Azerbaijani folk theatre.
This theatrical tradition serves as a vivid reflection of both national culture and musical folklore. Particularly in folk performances, the musical pieces are typically short, repetitive, lively, energetic, and sometimes combative. These melodies are usually performed on the traditional wind instrument zurna. Each piece often begins with a repeated motif that functions as an intrada—a call to attention—directing the audience’s focus toward the forthcoming performance. Furthermore, turning points and significant moments in the play find vivid expression through music. Thus, folk performances are inconceivable without musical accompaniment.
The research methodology is based on analysis, comparison, and empirical observation. Musical samples used in games and performances held during festivals and ceremonies across various regions were collected, transcribed into musical notation, and analyzed. The findings of the study underscore the importance of selecting music in Azerbaijani folk theatre by stage conditions and artistic requirements.}, number={4}, publisher={Nilgün SAZAK}