As Syrians consider music a part of their daily life, dancing too has its role being their way to express happiness and joy.Not only do they include music in celebrations and parties, but also you can hear music in malls, cars, transportation, in the morning with coffee, and everywhere you can imagine!
There are certain musical traditions and practices, present in Syria longer than others that took influence from surrounding cultures.music in Syria is related greatly to poetry, influenced greatly by the Bedouin nomadic tribes, and the maqam system in Arabic classical music. Generally, Syrian music has a singer who is accompanied by three or four instruments.The texture is usually thin but can become denser depending on the use of each instrument. The main components are a maqam (a set of scales made up of three or four notes), and an iqa (rhythm/meter).A maqam will have two or three scales put together and played over the iqa (rhythm).Both the maqam and iqa can be advanced or simple to play.
Bedouin music is near-inseparable from poetry as is much of the music traditions in the Middle East. Many of the songs are in an oral tradition due to the nomadic nature of the Bedouin tribes.
Folk music of Syria is, for the most part, based on the oud, which is a string instrument, related to the European lute.
The ney (flute).
Hand-held percussion instruments, such as the darbouka, daf or riq
Other typical instruments are the qanun and kamanjah
In semi-Nomadic regions, Bedouin music is based on the Mizmar, mijwiz, and Rababah.
Syria, being one of the countries where Christianity originated, has a long history of church music. It is the origin of the Christian hymnody, which was entirely developed in Syria.
Syria's capital, Damascus, and northern Aleppo have long been one of the Arab world's centers of classical Arab music.In 1947, they established the Institute for Eastern Music, and in 1961, opened an institute teaching music under the direction of Solhi al-Wadi. Also In 1963, they opened a local branch of the Institute for Eastern Music in Aleppo, that included faculties for Western as well as for Arab music. In 1990, they established the Higher Institute of Music in Damascus as a conservatory for both Western and Arabic music.
One of the most popular dances in Syria; is a folk dance combining circle dancing and line dancing formed from right to left and headed by a leader who alternates between facing the audience and other dancers. It is mostly performed at weddings and other joyous occasions.Other popular folklore dances include the "Arāḍa" (Arabic: عراضة), a dance performed with swords, as well as oriental dance for women.There are several regional variations of Dabkeh around the country. Each type has its corresponding set of songs, often centered around themes of love.
Another traditional Syrian dance, while less popular than dabkeh, it holds a special cultural significance.Samah involves graceful movements, often accompanied by music and rhythmic patterns. Usually performed during various ceremonies and celebrations.
