Chitzazkiar Mode
The Chitzazkiar mode has its theoretical basis and final on C, where the fundamental element 5x-chitzaz is based. The incipit on high C characterizes the mode and defines its heptaphonic nature. The elemental structure is completed with a 4x-chitzaz on G. The extension is possible with a 5x-chitzaz on high C and a 4x-chitzaz on low G, making low B 1 comma flat the sub-final of the mode. The name Chitzazkiar is derived from the makam Hicâzkâr.
The primary modal dominant coincides with the incipit high C, while the secondary is G. The attraction F to F# may occur in phrases gravitating around the dominant G.
Dromos Chitzazkiar
The adjustment to equal temperament is referred to as dromos Chitzazkiar or equal-tempered Chitzazkiar mode (or Chitzazkiar*) and occurs as illustrated in the following figure. All the characteristics of the corresponding microtonal mode are preserved.
Examples
- I Voliotissa (instrumental)
- Liono mistika (instrumental)
- O charmanis (verse)
- O katadikos
- O Markos o Sirianos (instrumental)
- Paraponiariko (verse)
- Tatavliani tsachpina (verse)
- Thalassino meraki (instrumental)
This excerpt is taken from my book The Theory of Rebetiko, in which I explore the modal system of Greek music as it pertains to the rebetiko genre. To access the full text—including in-depth discussions, tables, illustrations, and musical transcriptions of the examples—visit this page and immerse yourself in the rich world of Greek modal music.
