How to Learn #1 Maqamat Quran: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction to Maqamat Quran

The Holy Quran is recited in different maqamat or melodic modes. Maqam means the place or position and refers to a system of melodic modes used in traditional Arabic music. There are many maqamat, but some are more common in Quranic recitation than others. Learning to recite the Quran in maqamat adds beauty and melody to its recitation. It requires dedication and practice to master the rules of maqamat and correctly apply them when reciting Quran. we will focus on learning one of the most important maqamat for Quran recitation which is Maqam Rast. A step-by-step guide on how to learn maqamat Quran through online and weekend classes tailored for different groups of students by top level institute, Qiratul Quran in UK.

What is Maqam Rast?

Maqam Rast is one of the most commonly used maqamat in reciting Quran. The word "Rast" means right or correct in Arabic. This maqam is called Rast because it follows the most common and natural scale in Arabic music. The melody moves steadily between the lower and higher notes in a balanced manner. This maqamat evokes feelings of solemnity and peace in the listener. It's perfect for capturing the beautiful poetic flow of Quranic verses. Mastering Maqam Rast will help you recite the Quran with proper rhythm, melody and tone.

Step 1: Learn the Scale of Maqam Rast

The first step is to learn the notes of the Maqam Rast scale. Here are the notes:

C - D - Eb - F - G - A - Bb - C

In Arabic notes, the scale is:

Yakah - Sikah - Jiharkah - Rast - Dukah - Jiharkah - Sikah - Yakah

Listen to recordings of Maqam Rast till you get familiar with the mood and melody of this scale. Pay attention to the distance between the notes and overall color of the scale.

Step 2: Learn Key Phrases in Maqam Rast

Start practising the Maqam Rast scale on short phrases and sentences. You can take simple Quranic words, verses or Islamic phrases like SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah etc. and try singing them using the Rast scale. This will help your vocal cords get comfortable with the transitions between various notes.

Some example phrases to practice with:

• Bismillah ir Rahman ir Raheem
• Ya Allah
• Hasbunallahu Wa Ni'mal Wakeel
• Subhan Allah
• Laa ilaaha illallah

Step 3: Know the Samaa' and Lahn Rules

When reciting Quran in maqamat, you have to follow some rules of samaa' and lahn.

Samaa' refers to the allowed melodic movements or transitions between notes in a maqamat. You can only move between notes in certain ways in each maqamat.

Lahn refers to the vocal embellishments and ornamentations that decorate and beautify the recitation. For Maqam Rast, some lahn techniques are:

Qaflah - a tremolo type oscillation between two notes

Kasr - a short trill

Sarakah - a shake on prolonged notes

Learn the samaa' and lahn that are permitted in Maqam Rast through listening and practicing. Don't add other embellishments.

Step 4: Start with Easy Surahs

Once you have a basic grasp of the Rast scale and techniques, start applying them on short and simple surahs of the 30th Juz like Surah Al-Kauthar, Al-Ma'un, Al-Kafiroon etc. Begin with reciting just a few verses with the Maqam first. Listen to your recitation carefully and identify areas of improvement.

Gradually increase the length and complexity as you get comfortable reciting larger passages in proper Maqam Rast. This will strengthen your tajweed skills too.

Step 5: Progress to Longer Surahs

After mastering the short surahs, move on to medium length and then long surahs like Surah Rehman, Yaseen, Mulk, YaSeen, Waqiah etc. The longer passages will help you practice maintaining the rules of Maqam Rast for longer durations.

At this stage, your recitation should sound melodious and professionally maqamat-like for verses, words and phrases throughout the surah.

Step 6: Perform Tarteel Technique

Once you have learned singing longer surahs properly in Maqam Rast, it's time to focus on tarteel. Tarteel means reciting the Quran calmly, slowly and melodiously.

When reading longer verses in maqamat, it's common to rush through some words. Tartil helps fix this issue. Recite the surah again but this time focus on pronouncing each letter and word slowly, distinctly and melodiously from start to finish.

Listen to tartil recitations by sheikhs to get the style right. With regular practice, you'll be able to recite lengthy chapters with both maqamat and tartil.

Step 7: Continuously Practice with Feedback

Like any skill, learning maqamat takes consistent practice over weeks and months. Set aside some time to practice Maqam Rast recitation daily. You can also join online classes conducted by certified quran tutors.

Gather feedback from your tutor or listeners after practicing. Identify areas where you drift off from the scale or make errors. Check for inconsistencies in any section and keep practicing till you perfect it. Listening to your own recitation recordings is also helpful.

With diligent practice, you'll be able to master Maqam Rast and recite the Quran beautifully.

Conclusion

Learning maqamat elevates the Quran recitation experience spiritually and aesthetically. Maqam Rast is one of the most important maqamat every student should learn. Follow this step-by-step guide to master Maqam Rast at your own pace. Be patient and persistent in your practice. Implement the techniques well through repetition and feedback. InshaAllah, with sincerity and hard work, you will be able to recite the Quran with Maqam Rast beautifully.