Maqamat (or maqam, sing) in Arab music are primarily a system for mixing tetrachords of different scales and characteristics, which combine to form melodic modes. Tonally, the maqam is unique in how it manages the use of quarter tones for creating numerous scale potentials. However, the maqam is also an elaborated set of rules governing improvisational technique and performance. It can be identified as the primary root of all genres of vocal and instrumental improvisation in Arab music. A strict technical definition of the maqam places it squarely as phenomenon indigenous and manifest solely in Arabic music, however I find it significant that a corollary to maqam as a phenomenon surfaces in the evolution of American Jazz, Indian & Western Classical music, contemporary Rhythm & Blues, historical Negro spirituals and modern Hip-Hop freestyle, and I feel that it also may serve as a metaphor for the creative process itself. ...
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