Learn the modal musical traditions of the Eastern Mediterranean

The music of the Eastern Mediterranean region is rich, complex and a melting pot of cultures and traditions. A future workshop aims to share the secrets of these sounds. On Saturday, Labyrinth Cyprus Musical Workshop and Paraplevros Productions present the Makam & Taksim workshop: Introduction to the modal musical traditions of the Eastern Mediterranean, led by musician Giannis Koutis.

The free workshop in Greek takes place as part of the activities of the European music project Awakening Sleeping Instruments in Europe and will be held at the Windcraft Music Center in Nicosia. Saturday will be a day of knowledge and sharing from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a break between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Koutis has studied the art of Oud extensively, has a degree in Byzantine music and classical guitar, and a master’s degree in Ottoman music. He has performed in several venues and festivals around the world both as a soloist but also as a member of ensembles, presenting among others his personal compositions. He has collaborated with world famous musicians such as Kudsi Erguner (Unesco Artist for Peace), Omar Farouk Tekbilek, Ross Daly and the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra.

A few days before the workshop, Koutis said: “This introductory presentation / workshop will focus on Makam, the modal music of the traditions of the Eastern Mediterranean, and on Taksim, the practice of free improvisation but based on rules, an essential characteristic of this musical genre. The musical language of Makam is based on melodic development, both in terms of composition and improvisation.

“Our material will be a small sample of the enormous classical repertoire of the Ottoman period; a repertoire with foundations in the pre-Ottoman period.

Participants are welcome from all musical backgrounds, whether musicians or music enthusiasts, since the aim of this presentation is mainly to introduce the basic idea of ​​Makam, while highlighting the mentality and elements that can be used to create a structured improvisation in the given context. Participants are encouraged to bring their own musical instruments for the practical part of the workshop.

Makam & Taksim: Introduction to the modal musical traditions of the Eastern Mediterranean

Workshop led by musician Giannis Koutis. Co-organized by Labyrinth Cyprus Musical Workshop and Paraplevros Productions. November 20. Windcraft Music Center, Nicosia. 10 am-6pm. To free. In Greek. Reservations are required. Phone. : 7000-7102