Trust in Improvisation: Thoughts on Irtijaliya
On Friday, June 11th, Al-Bustan was honored to present Irtijaliya: Maqam & Ragaat Play featuring Issam Rafea and Matt Rahaim. As Al-Bustan’s Executive Director Mohannad Ghawanmeh revealed at the beginning of this celebration of Arab and Hindustani musical traditions, Irtijaliya speaks to improvisation born out of masterful preparation. Without the limitations of a program or written composition, Rafea and Rahaim are unencumbered, free to move between the traditional forms of maqam and raga. As Rahaim noted in his introduction, it is hard to express in words the precise nature of the improvisatory practice shared by these two musicians, whose relationship reaches back many years, but its unique quality is apparent when you hear it.
Following introductions, a musical conversation ensued between esteemed musicians Rafea and Rahaim—free-flowing and unexpected at every turn. Overlaying Rafea’s command of the oud, Rahaim’s voice transported audience members. At times, the feeling was soothing and subdued, and at others, it felt like a dance was soon to follow. Our audience was hypnotized.
Anna wrote, “So happy to share this with all of you here.”
Amanda exclaimed, “Stunning performance.”
Grace shared, “This was incredible!”
At the conclusion of the performance, our audience had the opportunity to share their questions and comments with Rafea and Rahaim. Conversation quickly turned to the mindset requisite to bring to an improvisational performance, and how their improvisational practice has changed over time. It was fascinating to hear the emotions that come along with performing without the comfort and safety of rehearsal and the known. Both musicians revealed that their mindset is different entering a performance like this one, knowing that in the moments of fear and discomfort there is exploration and unforeseen beauty. As Rafea and Rahaim have performed together over the years, Rahaim shared that he has moved away from the tonal space of using a tanpura (a string instrument originating in India) in favor of a scaled back, and more unpredictable performance, that relies solely on the oud and vocals. The conversation continued, moving from thoughts on the effects of space and audience on performance to the limitations of improvisation, but the notion of safety and fear continued to emanate throughout.
At the end of the evening, it was evident that the trust that Rafea and Rahaim have in each other, as musicians and respected colleagues, created an environment that was prerequisite to the stunning performance that our audience enjoyed. In his introduction, Rahaim noted that he first met Rafea when he was an oud student in Damascus. Now, years later, he revealed that he continues to learn from Rafea, taking more risks in his improvisational practice because of his once-teacher. The trust between these two esteemed musicians, and the relationship between performers and audience, allowed for a performance that seemed effortless despite the feelings of discomfort and fear that our musicians revealed in their conversation. We were honored to host Rafea and Rahaim remotely with our trusted audience, and look forward to coming together with our community in-person for another concert soon.
Watch the concert here: