Most traditional and classical Arabic music, whether composed or improvised, follows set forms called qawalib in Arabic (singular qalab, literally a mold or a shaped container). Qawalib are templates to guide the composer and improviser, and are used both in vocal and instrumental music. Qawalib give the musician a familiar framework to work in, and create a sense of comfort and expectation in the listeners.
Qawalib are conveniently organized here according to their vocal/instrumental and composed/improvised dimensions.
Learn about the Dawr, Muwashah, Qadd, Taqtuqa, Ughniya, Qasida, Monologue and Duet.
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