This week I specifically sought out an Arabian piece because it has always been fascinating to me. My piece is called “Arabian Palace” on the YouTube channel “Fantasy and World Music by the Fiechters.” I am well versed in the world of Arabian music having listened and looked (mostly on YouTube) online for study music, big band arrangements, etc. Normally I pick a piece which is performed as a full production or a recording of a live performance, however, this week I decided to choose a song that sheds light into my normal routine. My first experience with Arabian music was probably watching “Aladdin” as a kid but I fell in love with in in high school band when we performed a medley of Arabian music for a concert. Since then I have gravitated to Arabian music, specifically when studying, trying to relax, or just for the atmosphere. I specifically chose this piece because I think it has been well crafted in the Arabian style with the main melody instrument at the foreground and dozens of small, intricate parts layering behind it subtly. The perfect balance between the wind, secondary instruments, other sound effects, and the tambura is so precise as to be masterful. As a percussionist and a future band educator, I admire the attention to these small details and the musicianship it took to pull it off. I think this group did an excellent job crafting and creating this experience known as “Arabian Palace.” I highly recommend listening to this with headphones, closing your eyes, and just listening for all of the different motion happening behind the melody, it really sets up the atmosphere of being just outside a grand palace.

 “Arabian Palace:” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhNZRDMk1l8