Abstract:

Monarchies of the 19th century needed certain symbols and practices to modernize their societies and solve the issues of legitimacy confronting them. In Iran, these symbols and practices were implemented in a comprehensive and programmed manner during the era of Nasir ud-Din Shah (1848-1896), who ruled the country for aproximately a half century. To empower his authority in the eyes of society and to integrate the state with the people, the Shah used certain signs and symbols such as flags, anthems, emblems, and medals, in addition to activities such rituals, celebrations, ceremonies, parades, and commemorations. In this context, music also had a very important function in making and building a new image. The official attitude of the Qajar administations towards music had changed since the beginning of the 19th century. In works written during those years, authors discussed music and referenced the musicians ot the Court. Particularly in the era of Nasir ud-Din Shah, however, the Court and notables supported developing music themselves. Nasir ud-Din Shah can be said to have taken music under his protection, and his reign is also remembered as the time then Western music entered Iran. Meanwhile, this period also coincides with the time music found a chance to play an active role in Ta'zieh ceremonies.

Keywords: