“Harmonizing Heritage: The Power of Iraqi Maqam Music in Shaping Identity and Community in Mississauga”
Abstract:
Let’s take time to explore the impact of promoting Iraqi Maqam music and organizing cultural festivals by the Maqamat International Academy of Arts and Heritage and Maqamat International Orchestra in Mississauga, Canada. It examines how these initiatives contribute to the empowerment of new generations of Iraqis in the diaspora, focusing on the preservation and transmission of cultural heritage and the formation of identity in a multicultural context.
Introduction:
The Maqamat International Academy of Arts and Heritage and Maqamat International Orchestra in Mississauga, Canada, serves as a pivotal institution in the preservation and promotion of Iraqi Maqam music, a traditional form of Arabic music recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This article investigates how the Academy’s efforts in promoting Iraqi Maqam and organizing cultural events contribute to the empowerment of new Iraqi generations in Canada, aiding in the preservation of their cultural heritage and fostering a sense of identity and community.
Theoretical Framework:
The text is grounded in theories of cultural transmission, diaspora studies, and identity formation. Key concepts include Stuart Hall‘s “Cultural Identity and Diaspora,” Benedict Anderson‘s “Imagined Communities,” and Pierre Bourdieu‘s notions of cultural capital.
Cultural Transmission and Preservation:
Iraqi Maqam music, characterized by its intricate melodies and poetic lyrics, is not merely an art form but a vessel of history, values, and collective memory. The Maqamat Academy’s role in teaching this music to new generations is crucial in preserving this intangible heritage. This transmission of cultural knowledge acts as a bridge connecting young Iraqis in Canada to their ancestral roots, ensuring the continuity of their cultural narratives.
Identity Formation in the Diaspora:
For Iraqi youth in Mississauga, the exposure to and participation in their traditional music fosters a strong sense of identity. In a multicultural society, where they navigate multiple identities, Iraqi Maqam music offers a unique and distinct cultural touchstone. This is in line with Hall’s concept of cultural identity, where these young individuals create a sense of self that is both “similar to and different from“ others, reflecting a shared history while accommodating their lived experiences in Canada.
Community Building and Social Integration:
The festivals and events organized by the Maqamat Academy serve as important social spaces for community building. These gatherings are not just celebrations of Iraqi culture but also act as platforms for intercultural dialogue, promoting understanding and respect among the diverse populations of Mississauga. This aligns with Anderson’s idea of an “imagined community,” where despite the diverse backgrounds, individuals come together through shared experiences and cultural practices.
Empowerment through Cultural Capital:
Engagement with Maqam music equips the Iraqi youth in Mississauga with a form of cultural capital, as defined by Bourdieu. This cultural capital fosters a sense of pride and confidence, empowering them in other social arenas. The skills, knowledge, and appreciation of their cultural heritage enhance their social and cultural competencies, aiding in their overall personal and communal development.
The Maqamat International Academy of Arts and Heritage plays a significant role in empowering new generations of Iraqis in Mississauga, Canada. By promoting Iraqi Maqam music and organizing cultural events, the Academy facilitates cultural transmission, aids in identity formation, fosters community cohesion, and enhances the cultural capital of young Iraqis. This not only preserves the rich Iraqi cultural heritage but also enriches the multicultural tapestry of Canada, illustrating the profound impact of cultural arts in shaping and sustaining diasporic communities.
Abdallah Rouhli
For inquiries, support, or more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Reach out at phone number 437-248-9883 or via email at orc@maqamat.academy. Your involvement could be the key to unlocking a new era of cultural and artistic prosperity at Maqamat International Academy. Together, let’s turn this dream into a reality.
Follow our journey | Subscribe to our newsletter | Donate to our cause
