TS 6900

TS 6900 is a terminology standard for the general terms used in Turkish music and for the definitions attached to them. It helps bring consistency to language used in theory, teaching, cataloguing, and written discussion of the subject. Its scope is intentionally limited: it does not cover special terms such as makam names, pitch names, usul forms, or usul types.

How the terminology fits the musical system

In Turkish music, terminology is tied to a wider theoretical and performance tradition in which makam, usul, pitch, and melodic movement are related concepts. This standard addresses the more general vocabulary that supports that framework rather than the specialized naming systems themselves. In general technical context, such terminology standards are valuable because they reduce ambiguity across textbooks, archives, reference works, and musical documentation.

By excluding the most specialized labels, the standard keeps its focus on common terms rather than the full theoretical structure of Turkish music. That makes it a vocabulary control document, not a complete theory manual. The practical value is clearer communication when the same general concept appears in different sources, editions, or educational settings.

What falls outside the scope

• General terms and their definitions are covered.
• Makam names are excluded.
• Pitch names are excluded.
• Usul forms are excluded.
• Usul types are excluded.