Dharafat

Dharafat, also written Zarafat, is a 13/8 rhythm used primarily in muwashshahat. Modern references indicate that when it is used outside the muwashshah, it immediately creates a classical or heritage-like color because it evokes the old muwashshah world in the ear. This is exactly the effect achieved by Baligh Hamdi when he used Dharafat in the introduction to Al-Hubb Kullu for Umm Kulthum and in the introduction to Mestanniyak for Aziza Jalal. Dharafat is therefore not just a complex meter, but a signifying rhythmic carrier that can color a modern song with an instantly classical aura.

Dharafat is used as a rhythmic template for feeling the 13/8 meter. Start from the first Dum, then connect the Taks and rests to the movement of the melody or song.

• Al-Hubb KulluPerformed by Umm Kulthum
• MestanniyakPerformed by Aziza Jalal