Our Courses
Kudüm, Bendir & Def Course
Master the rhythmic heartbeat of Turkish Makam Music through its core percussion instruments
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
New to music? We strongly recommend taking Turkish Makam Music Theory I & II alongside your Kanun lessons. It will make your learning significantly faster and more rewarding.
Kudüm, Bendir & Def Course
Kudüm, Bendir and Def are the foundational percussion instruments of Turkish Makam Music, each bringing a distinct voice and role — from the deep ceremonial tone of the kudüm to the versatile hand-frame technique of the bendir and def. This course develops your rhythmic foundation, hand technique and understanding of usûl (rhythmic cycles) across all three instruments.
KANUN
Level 1
Percussion Beginners
This course covers the fundamental techniques shared across kudüm, bendir and def: correct holding position, producing clear and accurate tones, right and left hand strokes, and reading rhythm notation. Students will learn popular foundational rhythms used throughout Turkish Makam Music repertoire.
KANUN
Level 2
Percussion Intermediate
Building on beginner technique, this course introduces more advanced playing techniques and complex rhythmic cycles, with a strong emphasis on producing accurate, resonant tones while adding ornamentation. Students will learn to combine the rhythms covered in the beginner course into new and more complex patterns, including 5/4, 7/4 and 9/4 time signatures.
KANUN
Level 3
Percussion Upper Intermediate
This course refines the complex playing skills learned at the intermediate level, combining several playing techniques and introducing new techniques across a variety of rhythms — including the right-hand mahbous, the trill and the tremolo. Students will play alongside recorded and live music, develop their sense of timing, and begin exploring rhythmic improvisation.
WHO CAN JOIN:
To enrol you must have either: Completed the Kanun Upper Beginners course, or demonstrated a sufficient basic technical level — assessed by your instructor.
Students must attend with their own kanun.
KANUN
Level 4
Percussion Ensemble
The Percussion Ensemble course brings students together to perform as a rhythmic section, developing the listening, timing and collaborative skills essential for performing in a Turkish Makam Music group. Students will learn ensemble arrangements and accompany melodic instruments and vocalists.
INSTRUMENT NOTE
Students must have their own instrument to practise between lessons. Instructors are available to help you choose a suitable kudüm, bendir or def.
Course Details
NOT SURE WHERE TO START?
If you are unsure which level is right for you, contact us and Dr. Serkan Günalçin will assess your current level and recommend the best starting point.