Nevruz is an ancient holiday symbolizing the awakening of nature and the beginning of the new year in the Turkic World. Celebrated as a common cultural heritage among the Turkic peoples, this holiday has survived to the present day with rituals that have changed throughout history but preserved their essence. The article examines the role of music in this holiday by focusing on Nevruz celebrations in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. The musical dimension of Nevruz has been shaped by folk songs, traditional instruments and dances. The “Sayacı” tradition and Hodu-Hodu ceremonies in Azerbaijan; melodies sung with kopuz in Kazakhstan; and musical practices performed by reading sections from the Manas Epic in Kyrgyzstan show that this holiday is intertwined with music. In addition, traditional Turkish musical elements such as the Nevruz makam add depth to these celebrations. Despite being banned at certain periods throughout history, Nevruz, which continues to be kept alive by the people, continues to exist as an important cultural element that strengthens national identity in the Turkic World today. Music continues to be a powerful binding element that increases the excitement of Nevruz and brings communities together.
Nevruz, Turkic World, Music, Musicology