Arabic maqam ( /
ALA-LC:
maqam, literally "place"; pl.
maqamat) is the system of
melodic modes used in traditional
Arabic music, which is mainly
melodic. The word
maqam in Arabic means place, location or position. The Arabic
maqam is a
melody type. It is "a technique of
improvisation" that defines the
pitches, patterns, and
development of a piece of music and which is "unique to Arabian art music." There are seventy two
heptatonic tone rows or
scales of maqamat. These are constructed from
major,
neutral, and
minor seconds. Each
maqam is built on a
scale, and carries a tradition that defines its habitual phrases, important
notes, melodic development and
modulation. Both
compositions and
improvisations in traditional Arabic music are based on the
maqam system.
Maqamat can be realized with either
vocal or
instrumental music, and do not include a
rhythmic component.