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Devr-i kebîr

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Understanding usul

One cycle of Devr-i kebîr spans 28 time units. Count 56 units across two complete cycles and mark the return at the second cycle.

The diagram shows the time count of one usul cycle. Consult a notated or performed example for strokes, stresses and mertebe. Several usuller can share a time count.

Example

Time units per cycle / usul · 28 / Devr-i kebîr

Time units per cycle / usul

28 Devr-i kebîr

Try it

Can a time signature identify the usul conclusively?

AnswerCompare the stroke pattern and relative stresses too. The equal time units in the diagram do not specify a düm-tek pattern.

Related topics

Usul, meter and asymmetric grouping

References

Usul — TDV İslâm Ansiklopedisi

Subject-expert review pending.