Zeybek

The zeybeks were folk heroes of the Aegean mountains who rose against oppression; their leader was called the efe. The dance reflects their dress, bearing and courage.

Zeybek is usually danced in 9/8 time to a very slow rhythm. The dancer spreads his arms and circles like an eagle, suddenly drops to one knee, then rises slowly, to davul and zurna or the bağlama.

Aydın, İzmir, Muğla and Denizli each have their own zeybek tunes. The efes' fight in the War of Independence made the zeybek a national symbol.