Eastern med, Middle East, arabic folk

• How is Greek music influenced by geography?

  It is influenced by music from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
• What is the purpose of Greek folk music?

  • Used for celebrations and social events
  • Consists of songs and dances
• What is a common characteristic of Palestinian music?


  It often contains only melody/vocals and rhythm, often without chords.
• What is a WAZN in Arabic music?

  A rhythm pattern similar to a Tala in Indian music.
• What are two popular Arabic WAZN rhythms performed on the DOUMBEK?

  MAQSUM and SAIDI.
• What time signatures are commonly used in Greek songs and dances?

  Irregular rhythms such as 5/8 or 7/8.
• What type of chords does Greek music primarily use?

  Diatonic major and minor chords.
• How does Arabic music differ from Greek music in terms of scale?

  Arabic music is based on a MAQAM, which is divided into microtones.
• What is the closest scale in Western music that resembles the Arabic scale?

  The double harmonic scale, also called the Arabic scale.
• What are the characteristics of melodies in Greek folk music?

  • Simple melodies
  • Freedom for decoration and ornamentation
  • Mainly moves by step (conjunct movement)
  • Lyrical and enjoyable to sing
• What is a common feature of Israeli folk dances regarding instrumentation?

  They often feature the bass guitar playing the root and fifth of a chord.
• How does tempo typically vary in Greek, Arabic, and Israeli folk music?

  It is often fast and designed for dancing.
• What is the role of improvisation in Arabic music?

  Improvisation is an important feature.
• What are typical instruments found in a Greek folk music ensemble?

  • Doumbek
  • Bouzouki
  • Violin
  • Bass
  • Vocals
• What is the texture of Greek folk music?

  It has a clear homophonic texture with a prominent melody and accompaniment.
• How has modern technology impacted traditional music?

  • Globalization allows access to Eastern Mediterranean, Arabic, and Israeli folk music via the Internet.
  • Music can be heard on radio, television, and at live concerts.
• What are some playing techniques used in Greek folk music?

  Techniques include tremolo and glissando.
• What is the structure of Greek folk music?

  • Short sections that are repeated
  • Clear structure with regular phrasing
  • Sections separated by clear cadences
• Name one artist associated with Eastern Mediterranean and Middle Eastern folk rhythms.


  Yannis Parios.
• What is the role of the OUD in Palestinian and Arabic music?


  It is a common instrument featured in the music.
• How does Israeli music differ in instrumentation compared to Palestinian and Arabic music?

  Israeli music has incorporated many Western musical instruments such as the guitar and piano.