Instructional DVD Volume.4 2015

This DVD is Co-responding with Mohamed Shahin’s CD titled AHLAM

Dance Like Egyptian Volume 4 offers 3 different choreographies.
1- Spicy Accordion Baladi – Technique & Choreography.
2- Modern Egyptian Oriental – Technique & Choreography
3- Cairo Style Shaabi – Technique & Choreography

Spicy Accordion Baladi

Baladi is a dance style from old Cairo. In a general context, the word Baladi means native, indigenous, or of the country, and is used to refer to the people that live in the lower society of Cairo, who often throw parties and weddings on the street. It is from baladi style dance that the modern, urban style of sha’abi has evolved.

When used in a musical context, the term Baladi refers to a structured form of musical improvisation, most often featuring a Tabla & accordionist, saxophone, or nay. It is sometimes referred to as a “baladi taqsim” or a “Baladi progression.”

“Banat Baladi,” – the song that Mohamed Shahin will be using from his CD “AHLAM” will start with a solo (Taqsim) by the primary accordion. Following this there is a call and response between the accordion and the drum, flowing into a slow rhythmic section. Additional call and response sections and quicker rhythmic sections will follow.

This baladi choreography has a heavy feeling; with the dancer appearing relaxed and strongly connected to the ground. Mohamed will break down the choreography, teaching the technique behind each section and focusing on use of hip movements.

Modern Egyptian Oriental

Oriental Music in general has many musical rhythms and changes inside. This specific piece is perfect for recognizing changes and different rhythms, which are incorporated in most standard oriental melodies.

“Amara” – the music that Mohamed Shahin will be using from his CD “AHLAM” features a variety of rhythms including Masmoudi Kabeer, Saidi, Maqsoum, Rumba and Malfouf, which makes it an ideal tool for learning to work with rhythms within Oriental dance.

In this video Mohamed is teaching an Oriental choreography (Raqs Sharqi) combining both traditional and modern movements. He will break down classical combinations and Egyptian technique while also sharing ideas for creative improvisation.

Cairo Style Shaabi

Sha’abi: is a name of neighborhood, a style of living, a style of dance, and a style of music. The word is Egyptian Arabic Shaabi and refers to the poorer, more common sections of the city. An English equivalent might be “ghetto.” The name came to characterize the style of music enjoyed in such neighbourhoods. And it is quickly becoming very popular for almost all young Egyptians, and the Egyptian society. The style is somewhat rougher and more playful than the rest of Egyptian pop music. Naturally, the style of dance acquired the name “Sha’abi”.

With its witty lyrics, playful moves and cultural gestures, Egyptian Shaabi music and dance is rapidly gaining popularity amongst belly dancers across the globe.