Assyrian Folk Music
Cultural Diversity in Music Education
CDIME refers to the inclusion and celebration of a wide range of musical traditions and cultures within the music education curriculum. This approach recognizes the importance of exposing students to a variety of musical styles and cultural influences, in order to promote cultural understanding and appreciation.
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There are several key concepts that are central to cultural diversity in music education:
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Inclusion: This refers to the idea that all musical cultures should be represented and valued within the music education curriculum. This means that students should have opportunities to learn about and experience music from a variety of cultures, including those that are different from their own.
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Respect: This refers to the idea that all musical cultures should be treated with respect and that cultural differences should be celebrated, rather than criticized or judged.
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Empathy: This refers to the ability to understand and connect with the experiences of people from different cultures. This includes the ability to appreciate the unique qualities and characteristics of different musical traditions.
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Cultural Understanding: Cultural understanding refers to the awareness and appreciation of the beliefs, values, customs, and practices of people from different cultures. It involves an open-minded and non-judgmental approach to cultural differences, and an interest in learning about and understanding the experiences of people from different cultural backgrounds. Cultural understanding is an important aspect of cultural diversity and is critical to building bridges between different cultural groups, promoting tolerance and respect, and fostering a sense of community and connection. Cultural understanding requires a willingness to engage with people from different cultures and to listen to their perspectives, experiences, and stories. This type of engagement can help individuals to broaden their understanding of the world, expand their cultural knowledge, and develop a more inclusive and accepting outlook.
Assyrian Folk Music
Assyrian folk music is a traditional style of music that has been passed down through generations of the Assyrian people, an ethnic group with a rich history and culture. Assyrian folk music is characterized by the use of complex rhythm patterns and the use of a variety of musical instruments, including the dulcimer, violin, flute, and oud.
Assyrian folk songs often have religious, cultural, or historical themes, and they are often performed at social events, such as weddings, festivals, and religious celebrations. Many Assyrian folk songs are passed down orally from generation to generation, preserving the traditions and cultural heritage of the Assyrian people.
One of the most distinctive features of Assyrian folk music is the use of a specific vocal style known as the "khigga." This style involves singing in a high-pitched, nasal voice and is characterized by its unique sound and melody. The khigga is often accompanied by the dulcimer, violin, and other musical instruments, creating a rich and complex musical experience.
Today, Assyrian folk music continues to be an important part of the cultural heritage of the Assyrian people and is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. There are many modern performers who continue to play and perform this traditional music, preserving its heritage and ensuring that it remains an integral part of Assyrian culture for generations to come.
Studying at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music Bachelor of Music Education, I had a subject called Cultural Diversity in Music Education.
I chose Assyrian Folk Music to focus on two songs to teach that are culturally diverse and historical.
I chose Two Musical Items composed by none other than the Legendary Assyrian Maestro, Composer, Violinist, PIanist, Teacher, Conductor, Choir and Band Master...Rabi Alexander Shoora Michailian
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Rabi Alexander Shoora Michailian
1. Babi Sogul Folk Song by Alexander Michailian
[Video Recording and Transcription]
2. Oriental Dance Folk Song for Violin by Alexander Michailian
[Video Recording and notation by A.S.M]
Transcription, Transliteration and Translation
‘Babi Sogul’ (See Resource also Music tab)
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This website will include the works of Rabi Alexander Shoora Michailian for education use only, as they are also historical.
The history of Assyrian Music will be delved into.
Listen and watch "Babi Sogul" performed by the infamous NABOURAM CHOIR in America, Turlock, Chicago founded by Alexander Michailian
