Egyptian Diary #1
In the first month of our year in Egypt, Reem arrived at Beit al-Oud this summer, studying new techniques and getting to know some outstanding musicians from across the Arab World. Part of this learning experience took her beyond the ancient walls of this conservatory located near Cairo's Hussain mosque, and into the realisation that, despite modernisation and all of the contradictions of life today, Egypt remains home to many important schools and philosophies of music.
Even with a single instrument like Reem's oud, there are vast differences in approaches to teaching and performing. Conservatories have largely replaced traditional oral methods, with European-styled methods everywhere. Sadly many of the old generation of asatiza (teachers) are no longer with us but those we have found are golden, and totally committed to preserving their art.
Stay tuned for more on Reem and Louis' journey.
