The traditional music of Morocco

Morocco enjoys a great ethnic and cultural diversity, so that the folklore of this country is one of the
most varied of the southern shore of the Mediterranean. In Morocco, music marks the rhythm of daily life. We can distinguish several types of music and dance. The music of Arabic influence, classical or Andalusian origin and the new popular and modern appeal. There is also Berber music, traditional from rural areas and mountains, which varies from one tribe to another.
Among the music that can be found in Morocco:

Arabic music and folklore

Moroccan music known as arabesque, where professional dancers wear decent clothes, sequins and long skirts or loose pants. Movements of the hip, pelvis, arms and hands characterize dance. Very danced in weddings and parties, where guests are most likely to dance but dressed with the traditional clothes of weddings called caftans.

Andalusian music

It is a style of Arabic music that is given in the north and center of the country, but was also given in alAndalus between the ninth and fifteenth centuries. In Morocco, it is called al-Âla. The Andalusian orchestras of Tétouan, Rabat, Salé and Chefchaouen are well known.

Berber dance

This type of dance is common in most regions of the country although it can present different modalities. Basically, it’s shoulder movement that alternates with applause. Many people can dance both men and women.

El Hait (Hayt)

Music based on flutes, drums, and traditional dance of the Gharb region (gharbaoui), with a lot of rhythm and great body expression.
National Art Festival Al Hayt (Hait) is held in Sidi Slimane in May, ethnic music and dance, cultural richness typical of this region. Al-Hait art is a form of artistic expression, intangible cultural heritage.

Chaabi

Widely used in weddings. Strong rhythm, accompanies dances. It is played in many festivals across the country, in rural areas, which varies by area. It is typical northern music “El Aita Jebali” a style of music and dance that originated in the mountains of northern Morocco in the eighteenth century. There is Aita music, typical of the coast between Casablanca and Safi, nostalgic that expresses the atmosphere, holding its National Festival in Safi.

Gnaoua

Gnaoua is a type of music of the tribes with this name in the region of Marrakech and the coast of Essaouira. Gnaoua dance is characterized by undulating movements, jumps and acrobatic movements. It is usually performed by a group of men.
The festivals of Essaouira and Marrakech are famous and attract many fans of this rhythm, which combines with performances of international modern music artist.
In conclusion, Morocco’s traditional music is a true reflection of the country’s history, culture and diversity. Each region has its own music and style, reflecting the richness of Moroccan music.