The choghur (Azerbaijani: Çoğur) is a traditional plucked string instrument, primarily associated with Azerbaijani folk music. It is a type of long-necked lute, historically played by ashiqs (troubadour-poets) and a significant component of the ashiq art form in Azerbaijan, and to a lesser extent, in neighboring regions such as parts of Turkey, Iran, and Georgia.
Characteristics: The choghur typically features a pear-shaped body, often crafted from mulberry wood, a long fretboard with frets, and a pegbox. It commonly has 6 to 9 strings, arranged in courses of two or three. The strings are usually metallic and are traditionally plucked using a plectrum (known as a mizrab or goltug) or, less frequently, with the fingers. Its sound is bright, resonant, and often described as having a rich, vibrant timbre, making it suitable for both melodic lines and rhythmic accompaniment.
History and Usage: The choghur is regarded as an ancient instrument, with its roots extending back several centuries, possibly even to the 12th or 13th centuries. It played a crucial role in the development of ashiq music, where it served as the main instrument for accompanying epic tales, lyrical poems, and improvisations. Over time, particularly from the 16th century onwards, the saz – a closely related and often larger long-necked lute – gradually became more dominant in ashiq performance, largely superseding the choghur. Despite this shift, the choghur holds a venerable place in the cultural memory and musical heritage of Azerbaijan. In recent decades, there have been renewed efforts by musicians and cultural institutions to revive and preserve the choghur, recognizing its historical significance and unique sonic qualities within Azerbaijani classical and folk music traditions.