The baglama is one of the most popular Turkish instruments. It is often called "saz," which in Persian means "instrument." Musicologists consider it the predecessor of the setar or juffi saz, mentioned in the 12th century by the classic Persian poet Nizami:

"Peace is a saz, if you wish to live in harmony with it,
Tune it to your special mode.
If you oppose everyone around,
Your saz will emit a false sound."

This instrument is widespread in Turkey, played at parties, weddings, concert halls, and taverns where traditional music is performed. It is made from mulberry wood. The seven strings are divided into two doubles and a triple. Depending on the size and region, the instrument has different names and tunings. The smallest is the "cura," tuned an octave higher than the tambura, while the divan-saz is the largest instrument, sounding even lower than the others.

The baglama is played with a tezene (plectrum) or by plucking the strings with fingers in the "shelpe" style. In modern music, there are even electric versions of the instrument.