Composer

:

Rabih Abou-Khalil

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Waltz

Compose Date

:

1995

Average_duration

:

7:29

Arabian Waltz is a composition by Lebanese oud player and composer Rabih Abou-Khalil. It was composed in 1994 and premiered in the same year. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is marked by a slow and melancholic melody played on the oud, accompanied by a simple bass line and percussion. The melody is reminiscent of traditional Arabic music, but with a modern twist. The use of the waltz rhythm gives the piece a European feel, while the use of quarter-tones and microtones adds an exotic flavor. The second movement is more upbeat and features a lively melody played on the oud, accompanied by a fast-paced bass line and percussion. The melody is more complex than in the first movement, with intricate runs and ornamentation. The use of syncopation and irregular rhythms gives the piece a jazzy feel, while the use of Arabic scales and modes keeps it firmly rooted in the Middle Eastern tradition. The third movement is a return to the slow and melancholic mood of the first movement, but with a more complex and intricate melody. The use of counterpoint and polyphony gives the piece a more classical feel, while the use of quarter-tones and microtones adds an exotic flavor. The piece ends with a hauntingly beautiful coda played on the oud, bringing the piece to a peaceful and contemplative close. Overall, Arabian Waltz is a beautiful and evocative piece of music that blends traditional Arabic music with European classical and jazz influences. It showcases Rabih Abou-Khalil's virtuosity on the oud and his ability to create music that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.

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