| Instruments used in Middle Eastern Music |
| Rebab: It guides the medolic flow in a piece. |
Music & Books
| If "performing" is in your plans, then it's a good idea to acquire a musical library. No matter what the size is large or small; having a variety of musical styles is a good choice. When selecting music go to websites that offer the file samples (use safe sites!) or visit stores that will allow you to listen to the music before you make a purchase. Take it from me I learned the hard way, just looking at the pictures, costume distraction! The selection for belly dance range from Classical Egyptian, Turkish, Lebanese, Folkloric and more. World Music, Arabic & Turkish Pop, Latin styled belly dance and North African beats are choices. It goes on and on. When making your selection for a performance, take these things into consideration, your costume, what are you trying to convey, the venue, lyrics-what are they saying and never select a song that will be offensive to your audience. Being considerate, compassionate and professional at all times and have fun while doing so. Build a library that will make you "Dance Like Nobody's Watching!" |
Yes, besides the music, I have found that reading takes you to
another level in your dance awareness. To know what and
what not to do is proper dance etiquette. You should learn the
customs, norms, history and dance meanings. Knowledge is a
good thing! I try to read and research as much as possible.
The "Tribal Bible" by Kajira Djoumahna is a MUST for
anyone interested in any form of Tribal dance period! This
books gives loads of information, dance instruction and covers
a variety of topics.
"My Grandmother's Secrets" by Rosiaa-fawzia B. Al-Rawi is
a beautiful story through the eyes of a young girl. The gift
that a grandmother can give you is priceless.
"Sacred Woman" by Queen Afua is total inner wellness for the
woman from beginning to end! Has lots of depth and
spirituality.
"Bellydance" by Keti Sharif ~ A Guide to Middle Eastern
Dance, It's Music, It's Culture & Costuming. A good general
overview.
"The Belly Dance Book" Edited by Tazz Richards,
Rediscovering the Oldest Dance. For those that have to know
more & never get enough information. Costume section is very
nice with diagrams.
another level in your dance awareness. To know what and
what not to do is proper dance etiquette. You should learn the
customs, norms, history and dance meanings. Knowledge is a
good thing! I try to read and research as much as possible.
The "Tribal Bible" by Kajira Djoumahna is a MUST for
anyone interested in any form of Tribal dance period! This
books gives loads of information, dance instruction and covers
a variety of topics.
"My Grandmother's Secrets" by Rosiaa-fawzia B. Al-Rawi is
a beautiful story through the eyes of a young girl. The gift
that a grandmother can give you is priceless.
"Sacred Woman" by Queen Afua is total inner wellness for the
woman from beginning to end! Has lots of depth and
spirituality.
"Bellydance" by Keti Sharif ~ A Guide to Middle Eastern
Dance, It's Music, It's Culture & Costuming. A good general
overview.
"The Belly Dance Book" Edited by Tazz Richards,
Rediscovering the Oldest Dance. For those that have to know
more & never get enough information. Costume section is very
nice with diagrams.
| Zukra: the whinning sound. |
| Zills or Sagat: Played by Belly Dancers! |
| Kanoon: Sounds similar to a Harp, has multiple strings. |
| Oud: Similar to a guitar, sounds are rich & deep. |
| Ney: similar to a flute, sounds are breathy tones. |
| Dumbek: Makes the dom, tek sounds. |
| Def: Arabic hand drum. |
 | |  | |  | |  | |  |
Maqam allows you to listen to the music before you purchase the CD! I use this website because I have the chance to hear it before I buy it! This service lets you sample various styles of music & get to know the artist. |
