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The concepts of the modes in the Persian songs of the folk nature are directly linked to the concepts of the classical music. Nevertheless, some amount of improvisation does play a minor role.
This is because the folk tunes of the Persian songs are strongly characterized by the relatively clear-cut properties of the melodies and the rhythms. The mood of each melody is determined by the function of the folk melody.
The varying aesthetic requirements of the forms of the Persian songs such as the wedding songs, lullabies, love songs, harvest songs, dance pieces, etc., are all met with simplistic transparency and appropriateness.
A large number of the classical instruments that are used as for the accompaniment for Persian songs are a bit too elaborate and difficult for the Persian folk musicians. In fact, each region of Persia can boast of a special set of instruments that are peculiar to it.
There are three types of instruments, nevertheless that are common to all parts of the country. They are:
1. A kind of shawm which is called the surnay or zorna
2. The various types of flutes called nay
3. The dohol which is a doubleheader drum.
Any discussion of Persian songs must necessarily include a mention of the new hybrid of mixed Persian-Western music. This mix functions as popular-commercial music.
The Persian Western mix consists of a strong usage of western popular rhythms, with an elementary superimposition of harmonies. It also consists of relatively large ensembles, which are composed mostly of western instruments that strongly characterize this form of the Persian songs.
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