Explanation:
assma Al Jandaly describes the traditional folk songs and dances of the region whose appeal has endured over time
Folk songs and dances of a region provide a key insight into the history and culture of the land and its people. Music and song have been an integral part of society for a long time. Musicians have imitated the sounds and rhythmic movements of birds and animals to express their feelings, thus developed their musical talents.
Folk songs and ballads are the early forms of music and have been passed down the generations, even before the advent of writing. These ancient art forms are particular to a nation and symbolise the richness of its culture. Folk songs continue to be popular.
The people of the UAE are known by their frankness and honesty and their emotional disposition to appreciate beauty. They have always been committed to preserving the poetic tradition inherited from their ancestors.
"Poets enjoyed a dominant position in society and their works were appreciated. Poetry knew no barriers and Rulers, scholars, merchants and common men exhibited their poetical talent in public," said Bilal Al Budoor, general secretary of the Cultural Scientific Association in the UAE.
Al Budoor explained that Al Nabati is a form of narrative epic poetry based on the life of popular Arab heroes. It has been very popular from ancient times as it was recited in colloquial Arabic.
"The Arabian gulf is blessed with shallow waters and timeless deserts. The coast of the United Arab Emirates extends 600 km along the Arabian gulf. The eternal deserts, adorned with beautiful windswept sand-dunes and verdant oases, lie further inland.
"The exposure to foreign lands and culture through trade relations, has enriched the music and songs of the Emirates. However, the core of their own folklore is intact."
He noted that the early notes of Arabian music were derived from the songs of the ancient camel herdsmen. The members of the ancient caravans sought refuge in beautiful verses, to break the silence and monotony of the raging deserts. The most popular of these songs is the Rakdh Al Rikab which means running of the camels. These songs still exist in the deserts of the Emirates.
The simple lifestyle and rich cultural heritage of the Bedouins have enriched the folklore of the desert. With the passage of time, the songs have attained the rhythm of waves and the glory of sand dunes.
