Instrument · Wind
Saxophone
ساكسفون (saxophone)
A single-reed metal-bodied wind instrument capable of both smooth sustained tones and powerful sharp attacks.
Belgium/France; Arabic adaptation: Egypt
Origin
The saxophone was invented in Europe in the 1840s by Adolphe Sax. Egyptian musicians later adapted it to Arabic phrasing and maqam intonation. Samir Surour became one of the principal figures associated with the Arabic saxophone sound.
Role in the dance
It appears primarily in modern orchestral, popular and fusion arrangements rather than traditional takht music. Its sound is strongly associated with particular mid-to-late-20th-century Egyptian arrangements and can create sensual, dramatic or jazzy sections.
Music
Rhythms it plays
Maqsum
4/4Probably the single most important rhythmic cycle for an oriental dancer. It appears in Egyptian popular music, classical compositions, baladi music, shaabi and modern Arabic pop, and frequently serves as the neutral rhythmic foundation to which other rhythms return. MaqamWorld describes it as the most widely used iqa‘ in Arabic music.
Baladi
4/4Heavy, grounded rhythm strongly associated with Egyptian baladi music and baladi progressions. The doubled opening dum creates a heavier feeling than Maqsum. “Baladi” is also a much broader cultural and musical term, while this specific rhythmic skeleton is more precisely called Masmoudi Saghir.
Wahda
4/4Spacious rhythm that leaves considerable room for melody, vocals and improvisation. Particularly important beneath sustained vocal phrases and expressive tarab passages. The name means “one,” referring to the prominent single dum anchoring the cycle.
Malfuf
2/4A fast, rolling rhythm often heard at the beginning or end of an oriental routine. Excellent for travelling steps, entrances, exits, veil entrances and fast transitions. Its accent structure has a characteristic 3+3+2 feeling.