Zaffa

Zaffa is a 4/4 rhythm, but in modern references it is defined not by meter alone, but by the social scene from which it emerges: the wedding procession in which musicians accompany the groom and his entourage on the way to fetch the bride, amid loud music, singing, and shouted celebration. For this reason, Zaffa is associated with a large and varied percussion ensemble that may include riqq, mazhar, tabla, duff, and baladi drum, together with a penetrating melodic instrument such as the mizmar. One of its best-known reference examples is Daqqu Al-Mazahir by Farid Al-Atrash, which remains among the most famous zaffa melodies used in modern Arab weddings.

Zaffa is used as a rhythmic template for feeling the 4/4 meter. Start from the first Dum, then connect the Taks and rests to the movement of the melody or song.

• Daqqu Al-MazahirPerformed by Farid Al-Atrash