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What is mugam music in Azerbaijan?

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In Azerbaijan, mugam refers to a traditional form of vocal and instrumental composition. It is the Azerbaijani manifestation of the broader Middle Eastern musical concept known as maqām.12

As a musical system, mugam is characterized by a specific set of pitches, melodic motifs, and traditional patterns of use. It functions as a melodic mode that provides a framework for performance, often involving improvisation. The town of Shusha is particularly renowned for its historical association with this art form.21

While mugam is specific to Azerbaijan, the concept is related to similar musical traditions across the region, including makam in Turkey, shashmakam in Central Asia, and the dastgāh system in Persian music.2