SCORE ANALYSIS AND GESTURAL SEMATICS FOR THE UZBEK INSTRUMENTAL REPERTOIRE

Abstract

This article posits that effective conducting of the contemporary Uzbek instrumental repertoire necessitates a paradigm shift in score study and gesture formation. Moving beyond the prescriptive models of Western classical analysis this work proposes a dual-framework methodology. The first framework advocates for a deep analytical process that treats the musical score not as a definitive text but as an interface between written instruction and unwritten oral tradition. This analysis actively deciphers embedded maqom structures usul patterns and symbolic notations for microtonality and ornamentation. The second framework introduces the concept of gestural semantics where the conductor’s physical vocabulary is derived directly from the semantic meaning of the musical material itself. Gesture is thus semantically charged communicating specific information about intonation melodic contour rhythmic nuance and timbral expectation inherent to the instruments. This article argues that by forging an intrinsic link between this specialized score analysis and a semantically conscious gestural language the conductor transforms from a time-beater into a cultural translator. This methodology ensures the conductor’s authority and clarity ultimately enabling an authentic and coherent performance that honors both the composer’s notation and the living spirit of the Uzbek musical tradition.