Forgive me if this is an especially daft question, but is this phrase *from something* in particular (a quotation, a playful citation of something, a
bit of standard improvisatory vocabulary...)?
Thanks!
Brian Prunka - 12-29-2023 at 12:08 PM
This is Simon's variation on a standard phrase. With slight variations, versions of this phrase are heard in Rast, Jiharkah, and 3ajam.
Simon has created a specific interpretation with regards to rhythm annd ornamentation, but it is a common phrase.
Here is Hikmat Shaheen, Simon's father, playing a version that starts in Rast and modulates to Jiharkah (it's mostly the Jiharkah version, which is a
little different but similar enough to see the resemblance I think). https://youtu.be/5Yx1IzeBm5g?si=HFhBHvUOyIK64GMm&t=133
You can find lots of examples if you listen to taqasim in rast/ajam/jiharkah
To my knowledge, this isn't a reference to a specific song, but is common maqam vocabulary. A similar phrase occurs in the Jiharkah part of Ya Mal
i-Sham.
cameron - 1-7-2024 at 05:26 AM
Thank you, Brian, for your reply and the examples!
I learned a ton by listening to these on the premise that they were variations. It's much appreciated. Brian Prunka - 1-7-2024 at 10:54 AM
Thank you, Brian, for your reply and the examples!
I learned a ton by listening to these on the premise that they were variations. It's much appreciated.
You're welcome. I find it interesting that in order to internalize maqam vocabulary, we tend to benefit from more specific rhythmic iterations, but
then ultimately it is generalized to a wider idea of what is a 'possible' version of the vocabulary. At least that has been my experience.
