This one day course will consist of classroom sessions as well as an interactive workshop. The morning sessions will focus on historical issues related to music in various Muslim contexts. Several stances related to the acceptance/prohibition of music, functions of music and examples of selected genres and instruments will be discussed. The course will also explore selected aspects of the contemporary music scene across Muslim contexts, paying particular attention to innovations in devotional musical practices. During the afternoon session, participants will be led by members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Zamana Foundation in an engaging and fun workshop where they will be able to experiment with a variety of instruments to create and perform an original musical composition inspired by the traditions introduced in the morning. This course is suited to anyone with an interest in music, and does not require any previous musical training.

The application deadline is January 25, 2010. For detailed information about application process, course fee, speakers and sessions please visit: www.aku.edu/ismc/shortcourses