The Essence of Maqam: music lecture by Osama Abdulrasol

The Essence of Maqam: music lecture by Osama Abdulrasol

Osama Abdulrasol introduces the expressive world of maqam, the microtonal Arab tradition behind his new work for the Vlaams Radiokoor.

By Vlaams Radiokoor

Date and time

Location

Protestantse Kerk Brussel

8 Nieuwe Graanmarkt 1000 Brussel Belgium

About this event

  • Event lasts 2 hours

Iraqi qanun player and composer Osama Abdulrasol is creating a new composition for the Vlaams Radiokoor, rooted in the rich tradition of Arab music. Central to the work is the expressive world of maqam—a melodic system from traditional Middle Eastern music that makes use of microtones. In this musical lecture, Abdulrasol, joined by vocalist Khaled Al Hafez, introduces both the audience and the Radiokoor singers to this unique and captivating sound world.

This September session forms the first step in the creative process for A Day in Sound—a new concert series in March 2026, where Abdulrasol’s music will guide listeners through the rhythm of a day, shaped by the expressive world of maqam. Divided into nine parts, each moment bathes in its own atmosphere and energy—from the hush of dawn to the blaze of midday sun, from the warmth of twilight to the depths of night.

🎟️ FREE LECTURE

  • reservation required
  • spoken in English

🎶 IN COLLABORATION WITH

  • Vlaams Radiokoor
  • Heide Müller, conductor
  • Khaled Al Hafez, vocals
  • Osama Abdulrasol, composer

Organized by

Since 1937, the Vlaams Radiokoor has been a reference for vocal music, both in Flanders and in Europe. The voice is the ultimate interpreter of our emotions, and the choir is one of its greatest ambassadors. 

 

Starting with the 19-20 season, Bart Van Reyn will take over as music director of the Radiokoor. A shared passion for contemporary repertoire, the belief that the voice is the ultimate interpreter of our emotions, and the commitment to make our vocal heritage accessible to singers and audiences alike are what binds the ensemble together.

FreeSep 9 · 12:00 PM GMT+2