THE RHYTHMIC FOUNDATIONS OF USUL IN CENTRAL ASIAN MUSICAL TRADITION

This article explores the concept of usul, a fundamental rhythmic pattern in Central Asian traditional music, and its significance in both musical and poetic contexts. Drawing from various scholarly works, the study highlights how different historical figures, such as Ibn Sina and Al-Farabi, approached usul and contributed to its theoretical development. The article delves into the intricate structure of usul, its relationship with meter, and its manifestation in both explicit forms (through percussion) and implicit forms (within melodic compositions). Additionally, the research examines how the smallest rhythmic components (naqra and nagma) play a crucial role in forming complex rhythmic systems. By comparing usul with poetic meters and exploring its historical evolution, the article underscores the cultural and musical importance of rhythm in Central Asian traditions. The findings show that, while usul has been defined in various ways across time, its core function as a rhythmic foundation has remained constant, influencing musical practices in the region for centuries.