Week 5 Reading: MENA Music, Sufism, and Cultural Identity: Key Concepts and Traditions

What is the main idea behind Arab-Andalusian music?

It provides the structure for Sufi ritual music in North Africa, using maqām and rhythmic sequences.

Which Sufi order in Tunisia adapted the Spanish tradition of music?

The 'Isāwīyya Sufi order, founded by Sidi Ben 'Isa.

What are the stages of the Tawhīyya ritual in Sufi practice?

The stages include the Entrance (no percussion), Majjōd (drums and handclaps), and Taqābīl (drums).

What do Sufi followers consume to demonstrate control over the body?

Dangerous items like scorpions, cactus, or glass.

What does the 'Isāwīyya Medley illustrate?

The ritual stages, starting with a cappella singing before adding percussion and instruments.

What historical factors shaped the modern political map of MENA?

Centuries of imperial expansion and contraction, leading to geopolitical tension.

How was the MENA region historically divided?

By the Byzantine and Islamic Empires.

What role did European powers play in MENA during the 19th century?

They controlled much of the area following the decline of the Ottoman Empire.

How did historical borders affect cultural exchange in MENA?

Ambiguity of borders allowed linguistic and musical traditions to travel and blend freely.

What are the core themes studied in MENA music?

Maqām (melodic system), vocal performance, music's relationship with emotion, and social context.

What is maqām?

The fundamental framework for melodic structure defined by specific pitches, intervals, and emotional associations.

What emotional traits are associated with maqāmāt?

For instance, Nāhwand conveys dignity, while Bayyātī suggests vitality.

What are rhythmic modes (Īqā'āt)?

Rhythmic patterns played repeatedly that carry emotional associations and can range from 2 to 98 beats.

What is the Waṣlāh in MENA music?

A multi-sectional form that includes improvisatory instrumental sections and precomposed vocal pieces.

What does the Stambūlī tradition involve?

Music, dance, and sacrifice to invoke spiritual possession by djinns for healing and communal well-being.

What instruments are key in the Stambūlī tradition?

The three-stringed lute gumbri and metal clappers called shqāshiq.

What is tarab?

The concept of musical ecstasy and enchantment shared between singer and listener.

How did Umm Kulthum exemplify tarab?

Through extended vocal improvisation, using repetition and variations in maqām and rhythm.

What is tajwīd in Qur'an recitation?

Rules for correct pronunciation and delivery, regarded as sacred speech.

What are Baqushōt in Jewish musical traditions?

Hebrew songs sung during night vigils that often borrow from Arab maqāmāt.

What is Turkish Arabesk music?

A genre blending Turkish folk, Arab, and Gypsy styles, reflecting themes of betrayal and poverty.

What is Música Mizraḥit?

A popular style of immigrants from Middle Eastern countries, blending traditional elements with Western pop.

How did Lounès Matoub use music for activism?

He championed Berber rights and culture, critiquing political injustice through his songs.

What is the cultural significance of music in MENA?

It expresses spiritual transcendence and allows for voicing sensitive political and social issues.