INTO THE MAQAM- IMPLEMENTATION OF ELEMENTS OF NEAR EASTERN MUSIC INTO MY OWN ARTISTIC EXPRESSION AND PERFORMANCE

Abstract

Much has been written on the topic of Near Eastern classical and traditional music. This huge, integrated musical tradition, existing in large areas of the Middle East and Middle Asia differs a lot from western musical theory and performance tradition. This thesis examines the topic from an outsider’s perspective, revolving largely around the possibilities of integrating concepts and techniques found in near eastern music into playing. For example: scales built on tetrachords, modulations within the maqām, micro tones, ornaments and odd meter .