Where does the saz comes from?
Surprisingly, the word saz in Turkish language means 'Instrument'. A stroll in one of Istanbul's bustling streets, you'll stumble upon those 'Saz Evi' stores. These are simply music shops. Since Saz is the most identified instrument of Turkey, it became its nickname.
The Saz or Baglama, actually originates from the steppes of Central Asia. An area where nomadic Turkic tribes wondered for hundreds of years. Its history goes back to the 4th century and at that time it was called called 'Qopuz'. It was a sacred instrument, used for religious ceremonies, and had 3 strings only.
As music evolved and the harmony and songs became more complex, more strings were added. It wasn't until around 1940, the number of strings increased to 7, structured in 3 courses. The Saz is so heavily rooted in Turkish culture that there are more than 15,000 Saz makers in Turkey.
The parts of the Saz
The Saz has a neck (called in Turkish 'Sap'), an unforgettable sleek tear-shape body (called 'Tekne'), and a top (As known as 'Kapak'). For strings, stainless steel strings are used and the bass string is wound. For pegs, you'd find many kinds of wood in use but most commonly Ebony, rosewood, or walnut.
Since the Saz was played by people in such a big geographical area, many different sizes evolved. The size differences are pretty dramatic. For example, the shortest saz, called also Cura, is 48cm. While the longest one, Divan Sazi is over 140cm. That's pretty impressive, isn't it?
Every Saz has a top made of either Spruce (most common) or cedar. Spruce is the classic wood for Saz. It gives it that bright crystal tone that it is so famous for. Cedar on the other hand, is more heavy and beefy. On the top wood, there's the tiny part that holds the strings above. That's the bridge and traditionally it is made of maple wood.
Saz vs Baglama
The big question. Saz vs. Baglama? what's the difference really. Among the people, a "Saz" is actually what is called in Turkish: 'Uzun Sap' or Long Neck Saz. It is a saz that is 110cm long. The Baglama is shorter and it is roughly about 95-100cm.
The sound between the two, is surprisingly significant. The Baglama has more of a sweet soft sound. The long saz is more harsh and bright. Yes, it is counterintuitive but go check it for yourself.
Another important difference is the tuning. Baglama's tuning is easier to play, in many players' opinion. And why would that be good to know? Since different songs are played in different tones and tunings. Some you'd be able to play on the Saz and some only on Baglama. Remember also, the Saz has 4 frets more than the Baglama. That's 19 vs 23.
Buying a Saz online
Why do people fall in love with the Saz? It is because of its simplicity, unique shape, and characteristic tone. Shopping for Saz or Baglama became an easy task these days. Online instrument shops are all the rage nowadays. With a click of a button, you can get a Saz shipped to you. Learning to play the Saz is also quite straightforward, with many courses and videos available online.
However things are often not how they appear. Today's Saz workshops are made like a production line, with minimum quality control. That means wood is cut, pieces are glued and strings are attached. The next day the instruments ship out. You don't want to end up getting such an instrument. In the good case, you won't like its sound, or worse you won't be able even to play it.
A few personal tips to check in a Saz or Baglama
My name is Daniel and I'm a Saz player myself for over 7 years. Being the owner of Ethnic Musical I learned a thing or two about the Saz business, and I'm happy to share with you a few useful tips.
- Always check if the wood is solid wood. It is common today for companies to use press wood. This wood doesn't have any acoustic benefits.
- Verify that the Saz has either rosewood, walnut, or ebony pegs. Do you see those white wooden pegs? Stay away from them. They don't hold a tune.
- Strings effect sound dramatically. Your Saz should have decent strings installed. Companies like Pyramid or Kurschner are good enough.
- Packing isn't straightforward when it comes to a Saz. The special shape makes it a challenge to deliver safely. And we have heard quite a few horror stories. Buy a Saz, from a company that specializes in Saz.
I'd like to wish you good luck and joy from your new upcoming Saz. I'm sure it is going to be an amazing journey.
