During the day at Castle Wars, classes will be available on a variety of topics. If you are interested in teaching a class, please contact the .
11:00 am - Introduction to Blackwork Embroidery
Alessandra Fioravanti
1:00 pm - Middle Eastern Drumming 101
Majda Anwar
If you've never picked up a drum, or have taken the cursory "whack" at it now and then, this workshop is for you! This class is an absolute introduction to the most basic concepts of drumming for the dancer who wishes to begin her study of rhythm. We will begin with hand and body posture for the DUM, TEK, and KA sounds as played on the Doumbek and Tar/Frame Drum. We will then discuss useful musical concepts and practice several popular rhythms including the beledi family, chiftitelli, and others. We'll also cover drum circle etiquette and how you can participate in samras and revels as a percussionist.
2:00 pm - Emoting to the Middle Eastern Music through Dance: An Exploration of the Maqamat
Majda Anwar
In Middle Eastern music, musicians strive for Tarab, or "enchantment", of the audience. The idea of Tarab spans all arts of the Middle East - including dance. In this workshop, Majda will introduce basic theory of the Middle Eastern Maqamat, or musical modes, in order for dancers to recognize the difference between the major modal families of maqamat. In addition to ear training and getting used to the quarter tone system that makes the maqamat unique, dancers will also be guided through how to emote these different modes. Perfect for practicing your musical interpretations during samras (party formally known as haflas).
