Is Maqam similar to Western Music Modes? 

Learn the basics of Maqam in a fun visual way (No prior music knowledge required) www.maqamlego.com/experience
Assuming that western music patterns apply to Arabic music is a BIG mistake.
Because each maqam (the modal system of the Arab world) behaves differently.
Here is an example: The classic shift between major and minor. Try to translate that to Arabic maqam by modulating from Ajam to Nahawand (the 'seemingly' equivalents of Major Minor in Arabic music). Your audience will cringe 😵
Simply because the major minor patten is considered to be off and it's simply an unused modulation pathway in Arabic music.
Here is another example: What is considered to be sad or happy (major minor) is completely different in Arabic music!
So what do you do instead?
You learn each maqam on it's own as a unique case and you can hear me talk more about that 10 seconds into the video.
So where to start?
You start with the core maqam building blocks that create 99% of Arabic music.
This is the most effective and authentic way to study maqam.
Want to learn more? Join me at the The Maqam Lego Experience! We start in 1 week from today and it's FREE.
www.maqamlego.com/experience
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Filmed at @leightonsambournemuseums as part of the premier of a commission I wrote inspired by Leighton House.
#maqamlego #maqam #arabmusic #Arabicmusiclovers #learnmaqam