maqoms

Maqoms, also known as "maqam" or "makam," are traditional musical modes used prominently in Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and North African music. They serve as both melodic frameworks and improvisational systems that guide performers in improvisation and composition. The concept of maqom encompasses specific scales, intervals, motifs, and emotional expressions associated with each mode.

Originating from classical Arabic music traditions, maqoms have been integrated into various regional musical styles, including Turkish, Persian, Kurdish, and Azerbaijani music. Each maqom typically consists of a series of melodic "layers" or "cells" that define its character, along with specific rules for modulating between different maqoms or sections within a performance.

In performance, maqom music often involves intricate vocal or instrumental improvisations, emphasizing expressive ornamentation and microtonal variations. This improvisational quality allows performers to explore the emotional nuances embedded within each maqom. Systems of maqom are often taught through oral tradition and have been formalized in music schools and conservatories in countries where they are culturally significant.

The traditional maqom system is linked closely with poetic and spiritual themes, especially in the context of Sufi music, where it aids in spiritual reflection and connection. Over time, maqoms have gained recognition as an essential element of musical heritage and continue to influence contemporary compositions and performances in the regions where they are practiced.