An analysis of the polyphonic Georgian folk song “Maqruli” performed by Machakheli Seniors’ Ensemble

Abstract

Songs performed by Machakheli Seniors Ensemble have survived from past to present through oral tradition. In this study, the polyphonic vocal style of Machakheli Seniors Ensemble that is transferred to younger generations through master–apprentice relationship was analysed. In this study, the polyphonic vocal style of Machakheli Seniors Ensemble that is transferred to younger generations through master – apprentice relationship was analysed over the song “Maqruli” performed by the ensemble. In addition to the musical terms and concepts of general music theory, Georgian folk music employs various traditional terms. Basic terms such as Modzakhili, Meore Khma, Bani functionally determine the mission of the voice in Georgian language and its function within the musical structure. The song “Maqruli” performed by Machakheli Seniors Ensemble was analysed through these terms and also a descriptive linguistic analysis in terms of syllabic meter, rhyme and thematic integrity was conducted. As a result of the literature review conducted, no written source conveying the vocal performance practices of Machakheli Seniors Ensemble was found. The aim of this study was to analyse the existing performance practices of Machakheli Seniors Ensemble both technically and historically. In this article, qualitative data collection methods such as observation, interview and document analysis were used. It may be predicted that more researches are to be conducted on the subject in the future. Machakheli Seniors Ensemble should be given a range of priorities in order for the them to transfers the songs voiced by Machakheli Seniors Ensemble and the polyphonic vocal tradition. It is anticipated that it will be appropriate, with the support of associations and municipalities in the region, to create a training model in which choirs will be formed and they will be regularly trained on the polyphonic singing tradition by the members of Machakheli Seniors Ensemble in order to ensure its continuity. It is essential for educational materials to include cultural values and singing tradition of Machakheli Valley for intergenerational transfer. Socio-culturally evaluating the region of Machakheli Valley that straddles the border of Turkey and Georgia, researchers may conduct studies in context of the shared and diverging musical practices of the two countries.

Keywords

• Georgian Music
• Georgian Vocal Music
• Machakheli Seniors Ensemble
• Maqruli
• polyphonic

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