What Is a Comma, and Which Music Uses It?

A comma is a small pitch interval used in modal music. In the system described here, a whole tone is divided into nine commas. The concept is especially important for defining a makam's scale and melodic movement. The article presents it as one of the small audible steps within a whole tone, such as the interval from C to D.

These intervals deepen emotional expression in Turkish classical and folk music. They are not unique to Turkish music; microtonal systems also occur in many musical traditions around the world.

To perform a piece with its microtonal intervals, you need to hear them clearly, understand the makam and establish its pitches accurately. Listen to the makam and the piece often to familiarise your ear, then locate and play those notes on your instrument.

Caner Yıldırım
Rekor Sanat – Bağlama Teacher