Unravel the mysteries of the king of the Arabic orchestra: the qanoun. Known as ‘the law’ in Arabic, the qanoun is among the oldest and most distinctive musical instruments in ‘Sharqi’ or Eastern music, yet it is also the most misunderstood by dancers – with few able to match and respond appropriately to its complex phrasing.
Arabic music expert Guy Schalom leads you on a dance journey from the Iberian plains of Ziryab’s Andalusia through the royal courts of the Ottoman Empire all the way to Badiya Masabni’s Casino Opera and Egypt’s movie-age. Accompanied by Qanoun player, Ali Kabalan.