Music in Alevism

In this section, Pir Erkan Çanakçı examines the meaning and function of music in the Alevi world of belief. He offers reflections in particular on the sacred place of the bağlama in Alevism, the understanding of the Telli Kur’an, and the other instruments used in cems. Pir’s narrative demonstrates that music is not merely an aesthetic element, but also a religious guide, a means of instruction, and an inseparable component of cem rituals. This video makes visible how Alevi music is situated within a profound cosmological and ritual framework that goes beyond widespread Western perceptions.

This video is compiled from oral narratives recorded during the Pirler–Analar Workshop held on 10–11 May 2025 at DAKME (Dortmund Alevi Cultural Center – Rıza Şehri Academy). Conducted within the framework of the Alevi Encyclopedia project, this work aims to document and digitize the oral transmission of Alevi religious leaders.