Medium-Paced Usuls

These rhythms are more upbeat but lighter and more lively compared to slow usuls. They are preferred in dances or more exuberant pieces.

• Düyek (8 beats): It has an 8-beat structure in the form of two quarters and is one of the most well-known usuls in the Middle East. It is mostly played with percussion instruments like darbuka and def. It is often heard in cheerful folk music and dance music.
• Nim Sofyan (4 beats): This is a shorter, faster, and more lively rhythm. Nim Sofyan is especially common in folk dances. Its structure is formed by the combination of two main beats and is generally used in fast melodies.

Fast and Energetic Usuls

These usuls are frequently used especially in Middle Eastern dance music and folk festivals. Their rhythmic structures are fast and energetic, which motivates the listener to move.

• Sakil (9 beats): This rhythm, which starts with two main beats and continues with short beats, is quite common in Middle Eastern folk music and dances. It usually stands out with its irregular structure.
• Curcuna (10 beats): Popular in Middle Eastern and Balkan music, this usul has an energetic character with its fast tempo and asymmetric structure. Curcuna is often heard at weddings and celebrations. Its 10-beat structure is arranged in the form of 3+2+2+3.

Usuls Particularly Used in Arabic Music

Some rhythmic patterns used in Arabic music, especially in classical music, are recognized and loved throughout the Middle East.

• Maqsum (4 beats): One of the most well-known Arabic rhythms, Maqsum is arranged with two main beats and small beats in between. Maqsum is common in folk music and popular Arabic music.
• Malfuf (2 beats): This fast and two-beat rhythm is especially popular at Arab weddings. Malfuf, which has an energetic structure, provides rhythmic support for dances.
• Saidi (4 beats): Unique to Egypt and commonly played especially in dance music, the Saidi rhythm has a striking character. When played with darbuka or tabla, it makes the rhythmic structure prominent.

3. Interaction of Usuls with Melody

In Middle Eastern music, usuls strengthen the emotional atmosphere of the piece by supporting the melodic structure. For example, slow usuls are generally preferred for deeper and more dramatic pieces, while fast usuls accompany exuberant and lively melodies. This demonstrates the power of the combination of makam and usul in traditional Middle Eastern music.

4. Learning Methods and Practice Techniques for Usuls

For those who want to learn Middle Eastern rhythms, it's important to understand how rhythmic patterns are played. You can internalize usuls by practicing rhythmic patterns on percussion instruments such as darbuka, bendir, def. Also, learning how each usul combines with melodic structures helps you understand the spirit of rhythmic patterns. One of the most effective ways to understand rhythms specific to Middle Eastern music is to listen to these rhythms in traditional works and try to perform them.

Conclusion

In Middle Eastern music, usuls are both a technical rhythmic structure and a means of cultural and emotional expression. Each rhythm carries its own unique character and form of expression. For those who want to understand and feel the rich musical heritage of the Middle East, these usuls are a very valuable starting point.