What is Samai Rhythm (10/8)? Its Use in Turkish Music, Its Beat Structure and Technical Features

Donizetti Muzik
Nov 25
3 min read

In Turkish music, rhythms are one of the most important elements that define the spirit of a melody. One such rhythm , the Samaî (10/8) , stands out with its distinctive elegance, particularly in Turkish classical and Sufi music repertoires. This rhythm, which has survived from the classical period to the present day, adds depth to the music with its dignified yet balanced structure.

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Why?

Samaî is a word of Arabic origin, meaning "listening, hearing." In musical terms, it refers to a 10/8 (eighteen-note) meter pattern. This rhythm is frequently used in both Arabic classical music (Sama'i Thaqil) and the "Saz Semaisi" forms of Turkish classical music .

🎶 Samai Rhythm Structure and Count

The basic sequence of Samaî rhythm is as follows: Düm – Tek – Tek | Düm – Tek | Tek – Düm – Tek

So the counting is done like this: 1 2 3 | 4 5 | 6 7 8 9 10

In this structure:

Düm : Deep, thick sound (usually on the 1st, 4th and 8th beats)
Single : Thin voice (gives grace and transition to the rhythm)

This arrangement gives the Samaî rhythm both a heavy balance and a smooth flow .

⚙️ Technical Specifications

Size: 10/8
Tempo: 60–90 BPM
Beat Group: It is also performed as (3+2+2+3) or (2+3+2+3) in some works.
Instruments Used: Def, bendir, tef, darbuka, riq and oud accompanied forms
Stress Points: There is a strong “ Düm ” stress on the 1st and 6th beats.

The most beautiful feature of rhythm is that it flows in harmony with melodic passages, giving rhythmic elegance to music.

🎼 In Which Music Is Samaî Rhythm Used?

Sami rhythm;

In Classical Turkish Art Music , especially in the Saz Semaisi and Peşrev forms,
In Arab classical music , as “Sama'i Thaqil”,
In Sufi music , Mevlevi rituals and hymns,
In today's music, it is used as an ethnic rhythmic background in modern arrangements.

📍 Samaî Rhythm and Application Areas in Türkiye

In conservatories operating in cities such as Istanbul , Konya , and Ankara in Turkey, the Samaî style is one of the fundamental rhythm patterns in classical music education. Furthermore, the tambourine and the bendir are used in Mevlevi music performances. In the hands of masters, this rhythm acquires a deep spiritual meaning.

In music education institutions and online courses, Samaî rhythm beat techniques are among the advanced modules for the rhythmic development of students.

Musicians in Turkey can easily find darbuka, def and bendir models suitable for the Sami rhythm from online music stores such as DonizettiDarbuka.com .

💡 Why Learn Samaî Rhythm?

It is a fundamental rhythm for understanding the classical structure of Turkish music.
It is an exercise tool that improves hand and stroke control.
It makes it easier to understand forms such as the saz semai.
It provides a strong foundation for musicians who want to use traditional motifs in modern music.

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🎯 Result

The Samaî rhythm (10/8) is one of the most aesthetic and elegant rhythm patterns in Turkish music. Each beat carries a traditional touch, and every transition carries an emotional depth. Whether you play the darbuka, the bendir, or the tambourine, learning the Samaî rhythm will bring you one step closer to the essence of Turkish music.