Improving the performance level of beginner students on the Ney instrument through the Certo template

Abstract

Arabic music contains many instrumental templates, each distinguished by unique structural, compositional, and performance characteristics that define its individuality. Among these forms are Doulab, Sama’i, Bashraf, Taqseem, Tahmila, and free compositions. In the 19th century—a period marked by rapid global change—the Certo form emerged. This study addresses a research problem observed by the author while teaching Ney performance. Based on the researcher’s observation while teaching students how to play the Ney, he found that certain Turkish instrumental templates, particularly Certo, are not commonly used in Ney performance despite their pedagogical significance for beginners. The study first presents a theoretical framework, offering an overview of the Certo template. It then moves to the applied framework, analyzing Certo compositions in Maqam Nahawand and Maqam Sultan Yekah (the research sample). Based on this analysis, the researcher developed eight exercises—four for each composition—designed to enhance the performance skills of beginner Ney students. The study concludes with findings, recommendations, and a bibliography, along with an Arabic and English abstract.