“A broader understanding of language, culture and movement will not only enhance the individual but our society as a whole.”
The core of the adult program currently consists of Middle Eastern music and dance forms. Taught by Katayoun, the popular program Dances of 1001 Nights™ is based on Egyptian and Persian forms of classical, contemporary and folkloric dance, including belly dance! Through the variety of Middle Eastern dance forms, we also explore the music, language, culture, clothing and arts of this colorful region. For more information about the dance program, visit www.KatayounDance.com.
The music program is designed to foster an appreciation for world music and introduce fundamental musical concepts while developing specific skills and knowledge of musical genres.
Classes in the Language & Culture program emphasize communication and cultural understanding, while integrating students’ interests and needs within the framework of the curriculum.
Music & Art
Music
The music program is designed to introduce fundamental musical concepts while developing specific skills. Some courses are of particular interest to students of Middle Eastern dance, however, all who have interest in the courses are welcome and encouraged to participate.
***Middle Eastern Music Education***
A unique feature of this program is the opportunity to learn from a variety of guest experts. Explore new music and re-discover cherished titles on a whole new level of understanding and appreciation. Explore a variety of music so that you are better educated about Middle Eastern dance, its music and cultural context. With the knowledge and skills developed in this course, students will gain the tools and confidence to make more informed and appropriate choices about all aspects of the music and dance, from purchases to artistic choices and creative performances. Students will have a glimpse into the making of music, and take home a treasure of examples on CD to help in choosing music for performance and listening pleasure.
Part 1/Session 1: Regions & Styles (Ages 17 +)
Lecture, Exploration and Discussion: Discover a wide variety of Middle Eastern music including classical and folklore styles of Egyptian, Persian, Lebanese, the Arabian Peninsula and Central Asia. Each trimester features a different theme. Learn about the art and science of the maqam and taqsim which produce the emotion, drama and sensuality of Egyptian Classical music. Define and discuss the different styles, their cultural contexts, and meaning of lyrics. Compare and contrast regional folkloric music and themes. Exploration will include how to analyze music for choreography and performance.
Part 2/Session 2: Percussion & Rhythms (Ages 13 +)
Hands-on Practical: Rhythm is the foundation of all Middle Eastern music. With the hands-on study of the rhythms and structures, you will be able to better understand, analyze, and ultimately dance with confidence to any piece of Middle Eastern music. become familiar with Arabic percussion instruments and gain a deeper understanding of the most common rhythms, such as maqsoum, saidi, masmoudi, and wahida, plus more complex rhythms that are becoming increasingly more popular, such as samai. In addition, you will learn about phrasing and embellishments as you become familiar with a multitude of drum solo patterns and structures.
We will also explore a variety of finger cymbal patterns and discuss how best to incorporate zills into your performance for different dance styles. Bring finger cymbals and doumbek if you have them.
Art
Currently under consideration:
Middle Eastern Textiles & Clothing: Costume Concepts, Design and Construction
Language & Culture
While still under development, the language program is being designed with students in mind. We consider each student's purpose and goal for studying a language and strive to tailor classes to meet their interests and needs. Language courses currently being developed: Introduction to Persian (Farsi) Language & Culture, and French Refresher & Conversation. Languages under consideration: Arabic, Italian, Spanish.
Language Refresher & Conversation
Designed for those who studied a language in the past, perhaps high school or college, and would like to review and improve their skills, this course aims to help students combat speaking anxiety and gain confidence participating in discussions of various topics. Students currently enrolled in a high school or college course will benefit from the extra reinforcement as well as the opportunity to apply and enhance their skills in a less stringent environment that is relaxed and fun. Class will progress as determined by the needs, interests and abilities of students.
Introduction to Language & Culture
This course aims to familiarize students with a language and culture with emphasis on communication and cultural understanding. Curriculum includes essential conversation and cultural topics such as holidays, customs and traditions; a strong foundation of grammatical concepts; proper pronunciation, and writing system, if applicable.