Al-Bar’ah is traditional Bedouin music and dance from the Dhofar mountains in southern Oman.
The Bedouin communities in Oman are home to some of the most ancient traditions in the Arab World. Historically, the ancient Bedouins lived in tightly knit societies and had warrior cultures. Because of its location in the Arabian Peninsula, Oman has been influenced by the cultures of India, Portugal, Yemen, and Iran. Its location also allowed Oman to enjoy the lovely rhythms and beats of Arab music combined with the beats of Africa and the passion of the Omanis.
As a major part of all important life events, such as births, marriages, and deaths, music is a major part of life in the Sultanate of Oman. In contrast to other Arab countries, all Omanis participate in music, regardless of age or gender. During Oman's national celebrations, each governorate and region prepares its own celebration of the country's culture. There are many variations in the styles of traditional Omani music, but most are accompanied by dancing and recitation of poetry. It includes a war-like dance, as well as tribal chanting, called Al-Bar'ah.
The dance is performed with drumming and chanting poetry in a local dialect. Women and men gather around two or more male dancers wielding ceremonial knives, brandish their daggers, and perform codified dance movements, while others participate clap hands, and sing or chant poetry. Music is provided by the al-kasir, al-rahmáni, and ad-daff drums along with the al-qassaba flute.
Dancing in Al-Barah involves tens to thirty men and women in a half-circle formed by women and men. It is relatively simple for the dancers to follow their steps, but coordination with other performers and the music requires considerable skill. It is performed outside on special occasions, such as weddings, circumcisions, and religious feasts.
As with other Omani Bedouin dances, class distinctions are obliterated, as tribal leaders perform alongside the most humble of the population. With this tradition, Bedouins represent the chivalric spirit, strength, courage, generosity, and hospitality associated with them. There is also a poetic element to the dance which promotes love and flirtation. As a result, they kept the arts of poetry and music alive. Because of this, they are currently the guardians of a number of ancient dance forms.
As of today, Al-Bar'ah is practiced by many practitioners from Dhofar, who contribute to its transmission and preservation. Furthermore, according to Al Busaidi, director of non-material heritage at the ministry, the non-material heritage is an important part of the national identity, and His Majesty has always given attention to promoting it.
References
(https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/al-barah-music-and-dance-of-oman-dhofari-valleys-00372) (https://www.holidify.com/pages/music-of-oman-1353.html) (https://www.pressreader.com/oman/times-of-oman/20101211/281526517470008) (https://www.tota.world/article/2965/) |Subject=Art, dance, Entertainment and Recreation, Music, Verbal Arts and Literature |Country=Oman |SDG=(11) Sustainable Cities and Communities }}