Ottoman Minority Musics

"Ottoman Minority Musics" is a comprehensive study of the music of the Phanariot Greeks in the 18th century, an ethnic group within the Ottoman Empire. Despite their differing religious affiliations from their Turkish rulers, the Phanariot Greeks played a crucial role in the Ottoman bureaucracy and were entrusted with important positions, including the administration of the Danubian principalities and the role of the Grand Interpreter of the Porte. This study not only highlights their influence on Ottoman music but also their efforts to preserve their own Greek identity. At the Danube courts, they maintained a Turkish military band, established the first printing press with Byzantine characters, and frequently invited European orchestras to perform classical music. This work is the first of its kind to document the musical contributions of the Phanariot Greeks and to examine their unique approach to blending Ottoman, Greek, and European musical elements.