Nizana El Rassan My early teachers instilled in me to know my music, especially with choreographies, in order to best dance with, and not ahead of or behind in the music. Over continuous studies, I also was ingrained with the importance of being at least familiar with the rhythms of the dances and I have carried this information over to my students. Also critical to the authenticity of the dance, is the appropriate use of and at least some basic understanding of the music.
While the umbrella of the dance includes alternative music and styles, the essence of the MEHNAT dances lie in the music, and the interpretation of the music. Tarab involves becoming one with the music, a highest form of the dance. Having familiarity with the songs, rhythms, instruments and movements that “fit” with them allows you the freedom to become one with the music.
Another benefit is the ease and comfortability it provides when improvising, such as performances to live music. Knowing what the band is playing, when changes are coming, and what to do to what you are hearing is made easier when you have listened to the music, taken finger cymbal and drumming classes and are able to communicate with them if you have a preference with certain songs or rhythms.
Understanding of the meaning of the songs is very important, especially for those songs with lyrics. You don’t want to be using inappropriate music, or smiling during a sad part, or otherwise misrepresenting the intention of the song. There are people out there and translation services that can assist you in knowing what the song means and there are several classic songs that are “safe” to use that are good to know.
Also important is understanding matching the style of music to the song. For example, a Shaabi tune requires different costuming and movement than Saidi music. Saudi rhythms are best with Khaliji dances instead of Turkish Roma movements. Do your homework so that you are doing the representing the cultural art form appropriately. A few of the most popular songs to know include:
Shik Shak Shok
Habibi Ya Eini
Enta Omri
Zeina
Alf Leyla Wa Leyla
Ah Ya Zein
Leylet Hob
Basic rhythms to know include:
Baladi (aka Maksoum)
Masmoudi
Chiftatelli
Malfouf
Karsilama/Kashlama
Taqsim
Workshops, classes, print and social media and cultural trips to the region can assist in your learning and knowledge of the music. Dancing to the music is more pleasing to the audience eye. When you are on the beat, it shows you know your music. Having the musicality to go with your feel and understanding for the music is the piece de resistance!
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