This course is no longer accepting applications for 2010. Please contact us at ismc.shortcourses@aku.edu for further information about the course opening.

Course Description

In the Muslim tradition, Music has been called the pasture of the soul and the spring of the heart. It has also been called frivolous play and an act of vanity. Navigating between these polarised views, cultures of Muslims have produced rich and variegated traditions of music.

This one day course focuses on traditions that have rarely received the attention they deserve. Consisting of classroom sessions as well as an interactive workshop, the course will begin with a focus on historical issues related to music in various Muslim contexts. Several stances related to the acceptance/prohibition of music, functions of music and examples of selected genres and instruments will be discussed. We will then explore selected aspects of the contemporary music scene across Muslim contexts, paying particular attention to innovations in devotional musical practices.

During the afternoon session, participants will be led by members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Zamana Foundation in an engaging and fun workshop where they will be able to experiment with a variety of instruments to create and perform an original musical composition inspired by the traditions introduced in the morning.

Session Topics and Teaching Faculty (associated readings will be available soon)

Who should attend?

This course would be beneficial for anyone interested in music; and does not require any previous musical training.

AKU-ISMC is non-denominational and welcomes participants of all backgrounds.

Teaching and Learning

Music in Muslim Contexts will draw upon the wealth of knowledge brought by both participants and faculty in order to create a rich, multicultural experience.

The course will be presented by having classroom sessions followed by an interactive workshop.

Course Venue

The Course will be held at AKU-ISMC's premises at 210 Euston Road, London, United Kingdom, NW1 2DA .

The Institute's premises are situated in the heart of London, accessible by many forms of transport and near to a number of educational facilities, including the British Museum, British Library and University of London.