Fundamentals of Singing and Drumming
NOTE: This class began on September 27th. Six more sessions remain.
This is an 8-week beginner’s course that aims to teach students how to sing and drum to 2 sets of songs (qasidas), each in a different maqam or scale. By the end of the course, students should feel confident singing these two sets (waslas) without any assistance and should understand how to approach learning subsequent songs and composing additional sets.
Special attention will be paid to
Memorization: Students will be expected to memorize a few lines from each qasida so that their hands are free to drum. The goal is to be able to sing these two sets at will without needing to reference a sheet of paper or, worse still, a smartphone.
Maqam literacy: Maqams form the basic building blocks of traditional Arabic music theory. Students will learn to identify the essential notes of each maqam and learn how to use them in other contexts, such as reciting Quran or performing the adhan.
Ear Training: This is especially important in choral singing. A munshid needs to be able to identify and match the pitch of the other singers present. A good singer is a great listener.
Rhythm: Students will learn how to determine the tempo of a song and identify the appropriate drum beat for it. They will also learn how to structure sets so that the tempo builds steadily. Finally, they will learn how to maintain the tempo of a song in the absence of a drum.
Starting Pitch: Students will learn how to consistently start each set at the correct pitch.
In short, the goal of this course is not simply to learn a few songs, but to learn the principles that govern this genre of music and to acquire the fundamental skills that you will need to succeed in this journey.
Prerequisites
Ability to read and pronounce Arabic comfortably
Ability to carry a basic tune while reciting Quran or singing a simple nursery rhyme.
Schedule & Location
This is an online class. Attendance and participation is required. All sessions are live and will not be recorded.
There will be three sections for this class, two for Men (16+) and one for Boys (12-15). Please select the appropriate option below.
Classes will begin on September 27th, 2025 and end on November 19th, 2025.
In addition to the class meetings, students will have the opportunity to ask questions and request feedback during the week via Telegram.
Materials
Students are expected to purchase their own drums. All other materials will be provided.
Class Size
Class size is limited to 3 students to ensure adequate time for practice and feedback.
Refund Policy
Refunds will not be provided for missed classes.
NOTE: This class began on September 27th. Six more sessions remain.
This is an 8-week beginner’s course that aims to teach students how to sing and drum to 2 sets of songs (qasidas), each in a different maqam or scale. By the end of the course, students should feel confident singing these two sets (waslas) without any assistance and should understand how to approach learning subsequent songs and composing additional sets.
Special attention will be paid to
Memorization: Students will be expected to memorize a few lines from each qasida so that their hands are free to drum. The goal is to be able to sing these two sets at will without needing to reference a sheet of paper or, worse still, a smartphone.
Maqam literacy: Maqams form the basic building blocks of traditional Arabic music theory. Students will learn to identify the essential notes of each maqam and learn how to use them in other contexts, such as reciting Quran or performing the adhan.
Ear Training: This is especially important in choral singing. A munshid needs to be able to identify and match the pitch of the other singers present. A good singer is a great listener.
Rhythm: Students will learn how to determine the tempo of a song and identify the appropriate drum beat for it. They will also learn how to structure sets so that the tempo builds steadily. Finally, they will learn how to maintain the tempo of a song in the absence of a drum.
Starting Pitch: Students will learn how to consistently start each set at the correct pitch.
In short, the goal of this course is not simply to learn a few songs, but to learn the principles that govern this genre of music and to acquire the fundamental skills that you will need to succeed in this journey.
Prerequisites
Ability to read and pronounce Arabic comfortably
Ability to carry a basic tune while reciting Quran or singing a simple nursery rhyme.
Schedule & Location
This is an online class. Attendance and participation is required. All sessions are live and will not be recorded.
There will be three sections for this class, two for Men (16+) and one for Boys (12-15). Please select the appropriate option below.
Classes will begin on September 27th, 2025 and end on November 19th, 2025.
In addition to the class meetings, students will have the opportunity to ask questions and request feedback during the week via Telegram.
Materials
Students are expected to purchase their own drums. All other materials will be provided.
Class Size
Class size is limited to 3 students to ensure adequate time for practice and feedback.
Refund Policy
Refunds will not be provided for missed classes.