Qanun
The Contemporary Qanun Performance & Maqam Mastery Program is a structured training course designed to develop strong qanun technique while exploring authentic Arabic repertoire. Students learn proper hand technique, finger control, rhythmic precision, ornamentation, and the foundations of the Arabic maqam system through practical musical pieces.
Throughout the program, technical skills are integrated directly into traditional and contemporary repertoire, allowing students to progress musically while building instrumental control and expressive playing.
By the end of the program, students will be able to confidently perform Arabic pieces, understand maqam structure, apply ornamentation techniques, and perform both solo and within ensembles.
Course Details
Summary
Build strong qanun technique through a structured, step-by-step approach that combines technical exercises, maqam understanding, rhythmic precision, ornamentation, repertoire development, improvisation, ensemble playing, and performance training.
Certification
Certification is optional. To obtain it, students must pass a paid private one-on-one test in our pro studio with their instructor.
Curriculum
Tap each module to expand.
Module 1 — Qanun Foundations & Instrument Technique
Students learn the fundamental principles of playing the qanun, including proper posture, instrument positioning, and hand placement. The module introduces basic plucking technique, right and left-hand coordination, and foundational exercises that establish control, clarity, and accuracy on the instrument.
Module 2 — Introduction to Maqam & Arabic Musical Language
This module introduces the core concepts of the Arabic maqam system. Students begin exploring common maqamat while learning how scales, melodic movement, and phrasing shape traditional Arabic music.
Module 3 — Basic Repertoire & Rhythmic Foundations
Students begin performing simple traditional melodies while developing a strong sense of rhythm and timing. The module focuses on basic Arabic rhythmic patterns and integrating technique within real musical pieces.
Module 4 — Finger Technique & Instrument Control
Students expand their technical ability through advanced finger exercises designed to improve speed, accuracy, and coordination. The focus is on building fluid movement across the strings while maintaining tonal clarity.
Module 5 — Ornamentation & Tremolo Techniques
This module focuses on expressive techniques that define qanun performance. Students learn traditional ornamentation, tremolo control, and decorative melodic movements used in Arabic repertoire.
Module 6 — Maqam Modulation & Musical Expression
Students explore maqam transitions and modulation techniques used in Arabic music. The module teaches how to move between maqamat while maintaining musical flow and expressive phrasing.
Module 7 — Advanced Repertoire & Ensemble Playing
Students perform more complex Arabic pieces while learning how to interact musically with other instruments. The module focuses on ensemble awareness, rhythmic interaction, and accompaniment techniques.
Module 8 — Improvisation & Taqsim Development
Students are introduced to taqsim, the art of maqam improvisation. The module focuses on melodic development, expressive phrasing, and building musical storytelling within improvisation.
Module 9 — Performance Skills & Musical Interpretation
Students develop performance confidence through stage-oriented training. The module focuses on musical expression, phrasing, dynamics, and how to communicate emotion through qanun performance.
Module 10 — Recording Practice & Professional Development
The final module introduces students to basic recording techniques and performance preparation. Students learn microphone awareness, recording workflow, and how to present their playing in both studio and live settings.
Ready to enroll?
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