Taqsim

Some contemplative music for a cool and rainy spring day here on Canada’s west coast.

This is a “taqsim” which is an improvised solo piece, and it’s a common form for the oud, the Arabic lute. Taqsim are deliberately expressive, often being used to set the mood for a longer suite of music. They can go on for 20 minutes or more, as the musician weaves through an emotional territory and describes a varied and conversational musical landscape.

This sample is typical of the genre, moving between slow and contemplative moments and points of high frenetic energy. It’s from a live recording by the Egyptian-born Australian musician Joseph Tawadros. It’s nearly 12 minutes long, so sit back and enjoy.