MENAT Classes and Lectures for the SCA

A high-level introduction of Islamic empires across the world from 661 to 1600. From the Umayyad caliphate to the Ottoman empire, we'll explore the geographies, major historical events and cultural highlights per ruling body. This class is meant to be broad  to help attendees get an idea of different periods and peoples within Islamic history and hopefully inspire an extra European persona!

In this class, we will dive deeper into a glossary of terms and concepts that would influence a MENAT singer, musician or dance persona. Get a broad introduction to the history of MENAT music within period, primary and secondary sources for documentation and a glossary of musical forms, terms, and instruments to help develop your persona.

"Orientalism” is a way of seeing that imagines, emphasizes, exaggerates and distorts differences of Arab peoples and cultures as compared to that of Europe and the U.S. It often involves seeing Arab culture as exotic, backward, uncivilized, and at times dangerous. This class is meant to spark a  healthy discussion about the representation of Arab culture and peoples in Western culture and how that impacts the SCA. Limit:10 Ages: 14 & up

Learn about the historical Grand Bazaar in Istanbul built at the height of the Ottoman Empire. We’ll discuss the commerce, trade, and bartering that fed the inventory for the Grand Bazaar in 16th century Istanbul. Limit:10 Ages: 14 & up

Intro to the genre of Middle Eastern music for musicians with basic skills on instruments such as clarinet, flute, recorder or violin with the goal of participating in group settings at middle eastern dance and music gatherings (Samra’). A couple of simple melodies will be taught, Samra’ etiquette for  musicians, and a brief overview of music theory. Please Bring your instrument to the class. Limit:10 Ages: 14 & up

A follow-on course to the Beginner's Class I and a beginning discussion of Middle Eastern music theory to include the basic building blocks of the “maqamat” or modes. The class will involve more playing of maqamat and includes an intro to rhythms one might encounter at a group setting. More traditional Arabic tunes will be taught and practiced. Please bring your instrument to class. Limit:10 Ages: 14 & up

The development of Middle Eastern music forms is closely tied to the poetry and song that has been a part of Middle East since before Islam, and contrary to popular belief, has been well documented. In this class, students will be introduced to Arabic singing methods with maqamat. We will learn a song or two in a specific maqam that have period inspiration or origins. 

Intro to the genre of Middle Eastern music for percussionists and dancers looking to understand more about the rhythms of the Middle East. Basic rhythms will be taught along with drum circle etiquette and how to play with melody music. Please bring your own drum or percussive instrument. A short rhythms piece called “doroob” (rhythms in Arabic) will be taught to re-emphasize the rhythms. Limit:10 Ages: 14 & up

Learn about the Turkish Ottoman soldiers known as the Janissaries and their signature war music that struck terror into the hearts of cities across Europe and beyond. Apply your newly acquired drumming knowledge with THL Majda Anwar to provide Middle Eastern drumming during melees! Anyone with prior knowledge of ME Rhythms or Mehter (Janissary) rhythms are welcome.  Limit:10 Ages: 14 & up

In this class, students will be introduced to basic Middle Eastern dance technique. Before we dance, we will discuss what forms, postures and styles are more modern vs what could have been in period. We will cover basic posture, basic hip movement, and safety tips for dancing at outdoor SCA events.