Chitzazkiar: mode and dromos

This article is an adaptation from the book The Theory of Rebetiko by Carmelo Siciliano

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. The elemental structure is completed by a 4x-chitzaz on G. The range can be extended by a 5x-chitzaz on high C and a 4x-chitzaz on low G, establishing low B 1-comma flat as the mode’s sub-final.

The primary modal dominant coincides with the incipit high C, while G serves as the secondary dominant. The attraction F to F sharp may occur in phrases gravitating around the dominant G.

Dromos Chitzazkiar

The adjustment to equal temperament is referred to as dromos Chitzazkiar and is realized as illustrated in the following figure.