This lecture will focus on four components that constitute Arab Music in the Eastern Basin of the Mediterranean Sea with concentration on the following countries: Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and Iraq.

Topics will include:

- The Maqam (Melodic Mode): an introduction to the main features that constitute the Maqam, such as microtonality, tonal emphasis, and application.

- The Iqa` (Rhythmic Mode): an introduction to simple and complex rhythmic cycles and subdivisions used in Arab instrumental and vocal music.

- Musical Instruments: introduction to Arab musical instruments used in classical and rural settings.

- Arab musical forms: a brief introduction to composed as well as improvised forms.

- Zakhrafat: the art of melodic embellishment.

- Taqasim: the art of improvisation.

This lecture is sponsored by the Department of Near Eastern Studies with support from the Office of the Provost, Department of Music, and Society for the Humanities

Join us on October 21 for a concert with Simon Shaheen.