Restoring Our Musical Memory

The Tar, the backbone of Azerbaijani musical culture, is more than just an instrument; it is the sonic manifestation of our people's genetic memory. However, during the mid-20th century, under the influence of Soviet ideology, the process of 'standardization' caused significant damage to the natural sound scales of our Mughams. Today, we stand on the cusp of using Artificial Intelligence to restore that lost microtonality—the very 'soul' of the Tar.

Soviet Standardization and Lost Frequencies

In the 1930s, attempts to adapt Azerbaijani music to the European notation system and equal temperament led to the suppression of specific frequencies in the Tar's fretwork. This loss was particularly evident in the following Mugham modes:

Segah: The specific 'micro-tones' that provide its romantic and tender spirit were sacrificed to a symmetrical scale.
Bayatı-Şiraz: The micro-intervals that create its melancholic depth were standardized.
Hümayun: The transitions providing its philosophical depth were lost.

AI and the Miracle of 'Qızıl Fond'

At PromptAZ Music, we analyze ancient tape recordings preserved in the 'Qızıl Fond' (Golden Fund) archives using AI algorithms. This technology allows us to uncover hidden frequencies in the performances of masters who lived in the early 20th century, such as Mirza Mansur Mansurov or Gurban Pirimov. By identifying sound waves that fall outside standard notation, AI digitally restores the authentic 'Sadıqcan' fret arrangement of the Tar.

A Vision for the Future: Digital and National Synthesis

The decolonization of the Tar means liberating it from Western musical molds. Through AI, we are not just restoring the past; we are building the musical language of the future. Representing the Tar, Kamancha, and Balaban with their true voices in the digital ecosystem will further strengthen Azerbaijani music's unique place in world culture.