Ottoman music, also known as Turkish classical music, is a rich tradition that originated and flourished in the Ottoman Empire, developing in palaces, major cities, and Sufi lodges. Reaching its golden age around the early 18th century, it is characterized by a complex modal melodic system called makam, featuring over 600 variations, alongside rhythmic usûl systems. Instrumental ensembles typically accompany a solo singer, utilizing a diverse range of instruments such as the tanbur (lute), ney (flute), klasik kemençe (lyra), and kanun (zither).

However, the 19th century saw its decline as Westernization led Ottoman elites to consider it "primitive" and withdraw courtly patronage, resulting in the emergence of simpler styles like gazino. Following the empire's collapse, new republican elites attempted further suppression to hasten Westernization. Ultimately, these efforts failed to create an alternative, leading to the remnants of the Ottoman tradition being appropriated and nationalized by the 1980 military regime, ensuring its continuity.