5 things to know about Qawwali

What is Qawwali?

Qawwali is a form of Sufi devotional music, which involves usually large ensemble groups of musicians and singers. The traditional practise of Qawwali is often handed down through a system of hereditary training, with performers learning the art from senior members of the family.

The word ‘Qawwal’ comes from the Arabic word ‘Qawl’: قَوْل – which means ‘to speak’. Qawwali is what Qawwals (Sufi devotional singers) sing.

It is important that Qawwals understand and are trained in the mystical elements of Sufism, as their singing is grounded in Sufi poetry and mysticism. It is through the poetry and lyrics, as well as the music, that the audience experiences euphoria, transporting listeners closer to the Divine.

What instruments are used in Qawwali?

The most important part of Qawwali is the singing, and it is true than in early Qawwali, the use of instruments was banned altogether. Nowaways, instruments such as the harmonium, tabla and dholak are regularly used.

The harmonium is a form of hand-pumped reed organ, similar to an accordion.

The tabla is a pair of hand drums of slightly different shapes and sizes, used together to create both treble (higher pitched) and bass (lower pitched) percussive sounds.

Dholak is a two-headed drum, with each head capable of creating different pitches of sound. The smaller head will be used to create higher pitched sounds, while the larger head creates bass notes.

When did Qawwali originate?

Amir Khusrow was a Sufi saint in the late 13th century, and he is credited with fusing earlier forms of Persian, Arabic, Turkish and Indian Qawwali into the modern form.

Is Qawwali religious?

Qawwali is grounded in the mystic practice of Sufism, which is a form of Islam, so it is grounded in religious practise. In more recent times, many people around the world have discovered the musical power of Qawwali, as master performers have travelled around the world to perform in non-religious contexts.

Is Qawwali for me?

Why not take a listen? If you are totally new to Qawwali, you might want to start your journey by listening to our curated playlist, or you can check out the video below, of a live performance by master Qawwali musicians brothers Fareed Ayaz and Abu Mohammed.

Then – bring your friends and family to enjoy the brothers perform for A Night of Sacred Music for Eid on Saturday 22 June at Fed Square, to experience Qawwali in the flesh.