Research. |
DANCE OF MUGHAM “Mugham” is the Sufi-shamanic art of spirit that exists in and out of the physical realm. Centuries ago, Mugham was the integrated performance practice of Poetry, Music, and Dance together. The music was composed based on poetry meter, content and seven particular, unique, psychological moods. But through the years, the connection between poetry and musical elements disappeared and the two elements developed detached from each other. As well, the dance element has deteriorated to the point where only traces of it exist across Central and Western Asia, the Middle East and North Africa. Mugham inhabits deep inside the earth and far into the endless universe. The Mughamist expresses and embodies life by walking on the vulnerable edge of emotions.
“Dance of Mugham” is the product of over twelve years of research and reconstruction completed by researcher, educator and artist: Sashar Zarif. The goal of Sashar Zarif’s research was and is to reinstate the nearly lost element of dance back into the ancient form of Mugham. Through gaining an understanding of the relationships between the poetry, music and dance and has developed a base syntax, vocabulary and structure out of which to work. As the dance form continually evolves, it works towards the goal of breaking down barriers through greater cross-cultural understanding. Public workshops and school programs available. |
