Ahidous
Ahidous is a form of art that uniquely combines traditional Amazigh music and dance. This cultural expression is primarily found in the mountainous regions of Morocco, particularly in the Middle Atlas and the southeastern areas, especially around Jebel Saghro. Performers, both men and women, typically arrange themselves in a line or circle, engaging in this dance during wedding celebrations as a source of entertainment.
Meaning of Ahidous
The term “Ahidous” derives from the Amazigh language, signifying a collective dance. This folk dance is characterized by its rapid movements and consists of several fundamental elements, including poetry, singing, dancing, and rhythm. Ahidous is closely linked to the natural landscape of the Atlas Mountains, which features waters, rugged terrain, and numerous resorts. Remarkably, the art of Ahidous has preserved its traditions, rhythms, and circular formations for centuries.
Types of Ahidous
There are various styles of Ahidous, including those specific to the Zemmour tribes, which include:
- Ahidous Aksouath: Often referred to as the Greater Ahidous.
- Ahidous Amzyan: Commonly known as the Lesser Ahidous.
Costumes for Ahidous
During performances of Ahidous, men typically don white jalabias complemented by a head covering and wrapped turbans. In contrast, women wear attire that varies based on the region of Morocco, often adorned with jewelry. While performing Ahidous, men play special drums and recite poetry, while women echo the initial verses behind them. The themes of the lyrics in Ahidous range across various subjects, including love and hope.
Musical Instruments in Ahidous
In the context of Ahidous, the musical accompaniment is limited to the bendir (a type of frame drum). The unique sound of the bendir is produced by participants striking it with their hands. The drum features a tight circular shape.
Dance Technique of Ahidous
The key aspects of the Ahidous dance are as follows:
- This collective folk dance relies on agility, rapid spinning, and swift movements.
- Ahidous also features a call-and-response element termed “Tamawit,” characterized by spontaneous solo singing performed by a singer with a strong, piercing voice.
- The rhythm of Ahidous can vary from moderate to slower tempos, differing by region.
- The rhythm encompasses various components, such as traditional Moroccan beats similar to those of the Hamadsha group, five-beat patterns, as well as common two- and four-beat rhythms.
- Rotation is central to Ahidous, with the dance’s axis mimicking the Earth’s rotation from east to west.
- Ahidous performances typically occur at night and conclude at dawn.
- The dance is choreographed by the group leader, known as the “Maqdem,” who controls the movements of all participants and ensures harmony in both movement and music.
Musical Scales of Ahidous
The scales employed in Ahidous music are derived from Eastern musical traditions, reflecting modes such as Saba and Bayati. However, their application within Amazigh music imparts a distinctive local flavor that varies from one tribe to another.