''Ahaat'' () is a technique used in Arabic vocal music, involving the use of extended melodic variations on the syllable "a." The technique, which gives the impression of a sigh, is typically used to express strong emotion such as longing, sorrow, or great joy.
''Ahaat'' is used in Arabic classical and modern music as well as in light classical music, such as that performed by the Egyptian singer
Umm Kulthum
Umm Kulthum (; 31 December 1898 – 3 February 1975) was an Egyptians, Egyptian singer and film actress active from the 1920s to the 1970s. She was given the honorific title (). Immensely popular throughout the Middle East and beyond, Umm Kul ...
.
External links
Article describing ''ahaat''
Video
Egyptian singer Umm Kulthum performing ''ahaat''
See also
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Taan (music)
''Taan'' (Hindi: , ) is a technique used in the vocal performance of a raga in Hindustani classical music. It involves the improvisation of very rapid melodic passages using vowels, often the long "a" as in the word "far", and it targets at imp ...
Arabic music
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