Ousak Mode
The Ousak mode has its theoretical basis and final on D, where the fundamental element 4x-ousak is based, giving the mode its name. This mode is not characterized by any specific incipit, which usually occurs on D. The elemental structure is completed with a 5x-bouselik on G. The extension is possible with a 5x-rast on low G, making C the sub-final of the mode.
The modal dominant is G. The following attractions may occur:
- E 1 comma flat↝Eb, though rare, in descending phrases and/or in phrases gravitating around D;
- Bb↝B 1 comma flat, though rare, in ascending phrases leading to high D and/or in phrases gravitating around high C.
Dromos Ousak
The adjustment to equal temperament is referred to as dromos Ousak or equal-tempered Ousak mode (or Ousak*) and occurs as illustrated in the following figure. All the characteristics of the corresponding microtonal mode are preserved, with the attraction E↝Eb occurring more frequently in the dromos than in the mode.
Examples
- Aeroplano tha paro (verse)
- Alaniara meraklou
- Eleni Elenara mou
- Etsi Marika dechome
- I Armenitsa
- O milonas
- Stis nichtas to skotadi
- Vironiotissa
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.
