Musical Notes
What is a maqam?
The definition
of maqam:
Arabic maqam
is the system of melodic modes used in traditional Arabic music, which is
mainly melodic. The word maqam in Arabic means place, location or
position. The Arabic maqam is a melody type. It is "a technique of improvisation"
that defines the pitches, patterns, and development of a piece of music and
which is "unique to Arabian art music." There are seventy two heptatonic
tone rows or scales of maqamat. These are constructed from major, neutral, and minor
seconds (see Arab tone system). Each maqam is built on a scale, and
carries a tradition that defines its habitual phrases, important notes, melodic
development and modulation. Both compositions and improvisations in traditional
Arabic music are based on the maqam system. Maqamat can be
realized with either vocal or instrumental music, and do not include a rhythmic
component.
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