Pilehgah

Pilehgah is a Persian Dastgah (musical modal system). It is one of the twelve principal Dastgahs in traditional Persian music, characterized by a specific collection of notes, intervals, and melodic patterns (gushehs) that create a unique musical character. Pilehgah is known for its somber and reflective mood.

The scale of Pilehgah generally corresponds to a Phrygian mode with alterations, but the specific intervals and emphasis on certain notes within the mode contribute to its distinct sound.

The Dastgah Pilehgah includes a number of traditional gushehs, which are short, melodic phrases or sections that are used as building blocks for improvisation and composition. Some common gushehs within Pilehgah include:

• Darkasht: Often serves as the primary melodic area.
• Maqlub: A significant and recognizable gusheh.
• Hesar: Contributes a specific characteristic to the Dastgah.
• Jame'Daran: Another gusheh found in Pilehgah.

The performance of Pilehgah, like other Dastgahs, involves a combination of composed and improvised sections. Musicians use the gushehs as a framework to develop melodic ideas and explore the expressive possibilities of the mode. The Radif, a collection of traditional melodies, serves as a reference for performers.

Pilehgah is used in both vocal and instrumental music. Its distinct modal characteristics make it suitable for conveying a range of emotions, often associated with introspection and longing.