Balaban/Mey is a woodwind instrument performed by communities for centuries in the submitting states. The instrument consists of three parts, namely body, reed, and clip. The body has seven or eight holes on the front side and one hole on the backside. There is a wide and flattering double reed on the mouth side of the body. There is a clip used for chording on reed.
Various tree types are used for making Balaban/Mey which are grown under certain climatic conditions. Craftspeople should have advanced knowledge of nature related to plants, trees, and climate. The knowledge, skills, and techniques of craftsmanship and performance of Balaban/Mey are transmitted in an informal way among family members through word of mouth, observation, participation, and master-apprentice relationships. The element is also transmitted through formal and non-formal ways in education, where typically note-based transmission of the performing skills is applied.
In both submitting states (Azerbaijan and Turkey), the element plays a significant role in the music culture of many people. It has various social and cultural aspects connected with social practices, social memory, and cultural identity. Used commonly as a solo or accompanying instrument at folk festivities, weddings, concerts, as a part of orchestras, minstrels, and folklore groups, craftsmanship and performing art of Balaban/Mey has been a firm vector of social links existing between each member of the community concerned.
The inscription of the element will also ensure visibility and raise awareness of the RL and the Convention among local administrations and encourage them to prepare action plans in cooperation with related individuals, groups, communities, and NGOs to safeguard ICH elements and promote ICH in their region. The element is accepted as a part of historical and cultural identity in Turkey and Azerbaijan. Inscription of the element on the RL will also provide opportunities for gathering both countries’ craftspeople together in various events. At these events, practitioners from both countries will have a chance to share their knowledge, skills, and techniques with each other in cultural interaction. These gatherings will contribute respect for cultural diversity, mutual understanding, and human creativity.
Efforts for safeguarding the element began in the 1950s by broadcasting Mey performances by communities on national radios. Within these broadcastings, raising awareness of the element increased and Mey began to perform in every part of Turkey. The Government of Azerbaijan, including local authorities, has continuously supported the safeguarding of Balaban as one of the essential elements of local communities’ cultural identity in form of support to transmission and promotion while elaborating multiple ways for safeguarding the element. |Subject=Art, Craftsmanship and Practices, Entertainment and Recreation, Music |Country=Azerbaijan, Turkey |SDG=(08) Decent Work and Economic Growth, (11) Sustainable Cities and Communities }}