Conclusion
In conclusion, it is clear that despite being from very
distinct musical cultures, dance music from the Renaissance era and Arabic
classical music share a number of significant musical characteristics. Both use
rhythmic techniques such as layered polyrhythms, syncopation, and extended
phrases in order to produce the rhythmic effect of an ambiguous meter and
flowing, continuous rhythmic patterns. Additionally, both share similar
techniques of melodic construction, being largely modal, based upon ascending
and descending passages which are heavily ornamented, and having an undulating
melodic contour.
In terms of further exploration it might be interesting to look into how both Western and Arabic music are derived from earlier musical cultures and how this common lineage may have impacted their similar and dissimilar characteristics.
In terms of further exploration it might be interesting to look into how both Western and Arabic music are derived from earlier musical cultures and how this common lineage may have impacted their similar and dissimilar characteristics.