THE "GAITAGI" DANCE SPHERE IN AZERBAIJAN

Abstract

The first step in study of Azerbaijani folk music and folklore was made in the 19th century by our great composer Uzeyir Hajibeyli. This path started by great composer Uzeyir Bay was successfully passed by his followers in future. It is gratifying that this tradition, founded by Uzeyir. Hajibeyli, i.e. collection of folklore samples of Azerbaijan and study of folk music heritage, continues to this day.The Gaitagi dance can be counted among the above. Gaitagi is an ancient dance, very popular in Azerbaijan at that time, but forgotten over the years. One of the main reasons is that this type of dance was not collected or researched in due time. As a result of the research, interesting information was received about the regions of Azerbaijan where this dance was performed in the historical period. According to historical facts obtained by ancient musicians and masters, it was confirmed that the names of Kaitagi dances, both their music and their melodic language, belong to the Azerbaijani people. It should be noted that other peoples of the Caucasus have similar dances in folk music. However, the language of the music of each game confirms its national character and ethnic affiliation.As a result of the study it became clear that the majority of Gaytaga dances come from the northern region of Azerbaijan (Khizi, Shabran, Guba, Gusar) and the north-western region (Sheki, Zagatala, Gakh). But besides these dances there are also similar species created in Garabagh (Shusha, Agdam), Shirvan (Agsu, Shamakhi).