The Bağlama Metodu by Arif Sağ and Erdal Erzincan is widely considered the gold standard for anyone seeking to master the Turkish long-necked lute. This comprehensive two-volume work bridges the gap between traditional apprentice-style learning and modern academic pedagogy. Core Content and Structure
The method is divided into two distinct but complementary volumes, spanning over 540 pages:
Volume I: Exercises and Repertoire: This volume focuses on the foundational "Bağlama Order" (Bağlama Düzeni). It introduces tezeneli (plectrum) techniques and initial steps for tezenesiz/şelpe (finger-picking). It includes over 100 exercises designed to build finger dexterity and rhythm.
Volume II: Scales and Positions: This more advanced volume delves into the intricate "makam" structures (modes) and various positions on the fretboard. It is highly regarded for its systematic approach to documenting how different regional styles (tavır) can be adapted to the instrument. Key Features of the Method
Bağlama Metodu " by and Erdal Erzincan is a cornerstone of modern Turkish folk music education. Spanning two volumes, it bridges traditional apprentice-style learning with academic rigor, focusing on both technical mastery and repertoire. Guide to Using the Bağlama Metodu Structure of the Method
Volume 1: Exercises and Repertoire. Focuses on the Tezeneli (plectrum) technique, rhythmic plucking using the thumb and index finger, and foundational exercises.
Volume 2: Scales and Positions. Delves into the detailed positions on the bağlama neck and explores diverse musical scales (Diziler).
New Editions: The method is currently in its 5th edition (2025/2026), published by Pan Yayıncılık. Key Instructional Areas
Şelpe Technique: While Volume 1 introduces foundational fingerstyle (Şelpe) training, the method as a whole explores playing both with and without a plectrum.
Plectrum Mastery: Covers advanced techniques like scraping, combing, and "plectrum trill" used in professional-level improvisation. baglama metodu arif sag erdal erzincan pdf new
Notation & Theory: It is designed for students with at least a basic understanding of musical notation, as it relies heavily on technical etudes rather than basic theory. How to Study Effectively
Use Supplemental Videos: Detailed exercise demonstrations (No: 1 to No: 100+) are available on YouTube, often organized by users or instructors like Bora Yuce.
Self-Paced Learning: Many learners find the material dense; it is recommended to work through it slowly, potentially with a teacher, as some symbols and exercises are complex for total beginners. Where to Find the Method
Official Publisher: Available through Pan Yayıncılık and major retailers like Kitapyurdu or Amazon.tr.
Official School: The Arif Sağ Music School in Istanbul also provides the method directly.
Are you planning to focus more on the Tezeneli (plectrum) style or the Şelpe (fingerstyle) technique?
Bağlama Metodu (2 Cilt) , co-authored by legendary masters Erdal Erzincan
, is widely considered the gold standard for learning the "Bağlama Düzeni" (Short Neck) style. Published by Pan Yayıncılık
, it bridges traditional apprenticeship with formal modern education. Core Structure & Content The Bağlama Metodu by Arif Sağ and Erdal
The method is divided into two specialized volumes totaling over 500 pages:
Volume 1: Exercises and Repertoire (Alıştırmalar ve Repertuvar) Focuses on (plectrum) and (Şelpe/finger-picking) techniques.
Contains over 100 exercises designed to build finger independence and plectrum speed.
Includes a selected repertoire that reflects the nuances of the "Bağlama Düzeni". Volume 2: Scales and Positions (Diziler ve Pozisyonlar) Focuses on advanced theory, including scales ( ) and detailed neck positions.
Analyzes traditional "Aşık" music patterns alongside contemporary developments. User Reviews & Learning Curve Community consensus from platforms like Amazon Turkey highlights the following:
The Turkish Long-Necked Lute or Bağlama - The Archaeopress Blog
Arif Sağ and Erdal Erzincan are well-known musicians in Turkey, especially in the realm of traditional and folk music. Arif Sağ is renowned for his mastery of the bağlama, while Erdal Erzincan is celebrated for his contributions to Turkish music, also skillfully playing the bağlama.
The "baglama metodu" likely refers to a teaching method or technique specific to playing the bağlama. Unfortunately, without direct access to specific PDF documents or publications by these artists or related to them, I can only provide a general guide on how one might approach finding such a document or learning more about their methods:
If you manage to find a recently uploaded or updated PDF matching this keyword, it likely contains the following sections: It is highly regarded for its systematic approach
Arif Sağ is not just a musician; he is an institution. Born in 1945 in Aşkale, Erzurum, he revolutionized the bağlama in the 1970s and 80s. His technique focuses on tezene (plectrum) discipline, position playing, and a deep understanding of Türk Halk Müziği (THM) repertory.
His method books are famous for their systematic approach. If you find an "Arif Sağ Metodu," you expect:
The collaboration between Arif Sağ (the master of the traditional Alevi-Bektashi style and modern bağlama) and Erdal Erzincan (his most accomplished student and a virtuoso in his own right) resulted in one of the most authoritative educational books for the instrument.
Why is this method special?
The heart of the Arif Sağ discipline. Expect 50+ exercises focusing on:
Assume you now have the PDF (or a legal copy). Here is how to use it effectively:
Step 1: Do not touch the bağlama yet. Read the introduction. Arif Sağ insists on posture (saz zorlama). Sit on the edge of a chair, back straight.
Step 2: Open strings only. Page 1 exercises are often just open string rhythms. Do this for 2 hours before using your left hand.
Step 3: The "Arif Sağ" Finger Chart He divides the fretboard into positions (1st, 2nd, 3rd). Practice shifting between positions without looking.
Step 4: The "Erdal Erzincan" Speed Burst Once you finish the Arif Sağ section, attempt the Erdal Erzincan etudes. Set a metronome to 40 BPM. Play one measure perfectly. Only then increase speed. If you rush, you fail.