Göksel Yilmaz

Saz Lessons in Utrecht

Hello, I am Göksel Yilmaz, professional musician and saz teacher in Utrecht. Have you always wanted to play saz to perform your favourite songs (Türkü's) to your friends and family? Then you are in the right place with me. We work towards your goals on the saz in a relaxed and personal atmosphere.

Türkü and Baglama

Saz is perfect and traditionally suited to accompany singing. In my lessons you learn to play and sing at the same time. You build up a considerable repertoire of Türkü's of your choice. We work on ensemble playing and playing by ear. That means listening, enacting and improvising. Discover the possibilities of playing in different keys. Think of the keys; Kara duzen, Baglama duzeni, Misket duzeni etc.

Your first Saz Lesson?

While playing your instrument, you explore playing techniques for the left and right hand. You'll learn music theory and learn to read music.

Left Hand

With targeted exercises, you'll learn to place your fingers correctly on the strings so you can play a melody. You'll learn to tune your saz and you'll soon be playing your first song!

Right Hand - Tezene or Mizrap

With the right hand, we play with a pick (tezene or mizrap). Along the way, you'll discover various pick playing techniques from different regions of Anatolia.

Saz with short or long neck

According to your own choice you will receive lessons on the long-neck saz (uzun sapli) or on the short-necked (kisa sapli) saz. The tuning and playing technique of these two instruments are different, but it is possible to play the same songs and pieces of music on both instruments. I will be happy to explain it to you and help you with it.

Don't have a Saz yet?

Don't know yet which saz you want to play? Then I would be happy to give you advice. You can try out both types with me during the trial lesson. In this way, we will make a choice together which instrument suits you best.

Want to buy a Saz?

If you are looking for a good and affordable saz, you can easily find an instrument through me to order. I have contacts with excellent saz builders in Turkey. In addition to professional instruments, they make good study sazzes for a reasonable price! I can advise you on this.

Saz Kursu - Intermediate Level

Have you played saz but haven't done it for a while and do you want to pick it up again? Then we'll pick up where you left off! Even if you play regularly and want to take your playing to a higher level, I can inspire you and help you with targeted exercises, personal instructions and practical tips!

What can you expect?

In addition to etudes you will work on pieces or songs (Türkü's) of your choice. As you progress in your playing, you develop the interpretation of your favourite music and build an extensive repertoire.

Audition for Conservatory

Are you advanced and do you want to become a pro? I have a lot of experience to guide you in preparing for the entrance exam.

Children love Saz!

Children love music and it stimulates cognitive, social and emotional development. Depending on their ability to concentrate, children can start taking saz lessons from the age of 8. Group lessons for children are fun and educational!

Individual Lessons

Individual (one-on-one) lessons of 30 minutes, 45 minutes or 60 minutes offer personal attention and quick results!

Group Lessons Saz

Taking saz lessons with a brother, sister, or friend is often extra motivating and a lot of fun for children. Inquire about the possibilities.

• 4 students (max.) per group in one hour (60 minutes).
• 2 students (max.) per 30 minutes is also possible .
• 2 to 3 students per 45 minutes or per hour also possible!

Location - Utrecht East 

I teach in my own studio at Notebomenlaan 400 in Utrecht. Located 500 meters from Diakonessenhuis in the East district near Rubenslaan and surroundings. It is easy to reach by public transport. Cheap parking nearby is also possible!

Location - Oog in Al 

I also have a teaching practice in The Wild West. A neighbourhood culture house located in the old Cereol factory at Everard Meijsterlaan 1B in the Oog in Al district, near Lombok West.

Trial Lesson

During the trial lesson, we can get acquainted, discuss any questions you may have, and explore what kind of saz you have or are considering buying. I'd be happy to advise you on this.