Kudüm

Kudüm is a traditional musical instrument used in Turkish music. It is a type of double-headed drum that is played with mallets. The kudüm is often used in religious and ceremonial music, particularly in the Mevlevi Order of Sufism, where it is used to accompany the Sema ceremony.

History

The kudüm has a long history in Turkish music. It is believed to have been introduced to the region by the Seljuk Turks in the 11th century. The instrument was originally used in military music, but over time it became more associated with religious and ceremonial music.

Construction

The kudüm consists of two small drums, each made from a single piece of wood or metal. The drums are covered with goat skin or calf skin, which is stretched over the top and secured with ropes or cords. The drums are usually played with a pair of wooden mallets, which are held in each hand.

Playing technique

The kudüm is played by striking the drumheads with the mallets. The player can produce different sounds by striking the drumheads in different places and with different amounts of force. The kudüm is often played in a rhythmic pattern, which can be varied to create different musical effects.

Cultural significance

The kudüm is an important part of the musical tradition of the Mevlevi Order, a Sufi order founded by the followers of Rumi. In the Sema ceremony, the kudüm is used to create a rhythmic foundation for the whirling dervishes. The sound of the kudüm is believed to represent the heartbeat of the universe, and it is used to help the dervishes achieve a state of spiritual ecstasy.

See also

• Music of Turkey
• Mevlevi Order
• Sema ceremony
• Whirling dervishes