West Asian and Israeli Music Overview

West Asian Music

• West Asian music emphasizes melody over harmony.
• Musicians focus on pitch and rhythm variations to enhance melodic expression.

Israeli Music

• Israeli music combines Jewish and non-Jewish influences.
• It has contributed to classical, jazz, pop, rock, and other genres.
• Israeli singers are known for their distinct vocal delivery.

Jewish Music Divisions

Devotional Music

• Primarily vocal, used during Sabbaths and holidays.
• Often led by a Hazzan (trained Jewish musician).
• The congregation participates in prayer songs and also with the use of shofar.
• Shofar is a ram's horn trumpet, used during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

Secular Music

• Popular songs with non-religious themes.
• Uses instruments and vocals.
• Characterized by rhythm and romantic lyrics.
• Zum Gali Gali is a renowned example.

Israeli Instrumental Music

• Instruments have played a crucial role in Israeli music, since ancient times.
  • Examples are mentioned in the Bible.

Shofar

• Instrument made from a ram's horn.
• Traditionally used during Sabbaths, new moons, and royal anointments.
• Currently used during Jewish holidays.

Psalterion (Psallion)

• Wooden instrument with gut strings.
• Played by plucking or using a plectrum.
• Can be played on the lap, chest, or a table.

Kinnor (Jewish Lyre)

• National instrument of Israel.
• Played with fingers or a plectrum.
• Used to accompany singing and dancing.

Influence of Arab Countries

• Israeli music is influenced by Middle Eastern cultures, including Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
• Israel has adopted instruments from these regions.

Arab Musical Instruments (Example)

Goblet (Darbuka)

• Goblet-shaped hand drum.
• Played sideways on the lap, arms, or while seated.

Toft (Bendir, Duff)

• Hand frame drum (played vertically).