Echoes of Al-Andalus: Balancing Socio-Political Idealism and Pragmatism in Andalusian Music in Israel Open Access
Sayeed, Xavier (Spring 2020)
Published
Abstract
This thesis explores the interaction between Andalusian music and the complex social, cultural, and political dynamics that shape identity discourses in Israel. This study is based on fieldwork in Ashdod and Jerusalem in 2019, during which I observed over two dozen concerts, participated in cultural events, and conducted interviews with musicians and ensemble affiliates . In the work produced, I aim to analyze my observations with the historical framing of two Israeli ensembles: The Israeli Andalusian Orchestra, founded in 1986, and Tarab Yerushalaim, founded in 2016. I capture the continuum of the interaction of these ensembles with discourse on medieval Al-Andalus and the development of ethnic expression in Israel to craft a contextual understanding of the reasoning for contemporary practices as they relate to identity. I argue that performers of Andalusian music have responded deliberately and strategically to these dynamics, employing a combination of political pragmatism and social idealism in order to advance their personal and political goals. My thesis discusses this response within three sites where modern musical practices display an inextricable link to historical developments to inform political pragmatism and supply social idealism in varying degrees. I first discuss this through the development of the Israeli Andalusian Orchestra, framed as a response to the historical suppression and marginalization of Mizrahi Jewish culture. I then continue my study of the orchestra as a link between medieval Al-Andalus and modern Israel, specifically noting the functionality of nostalgia towards the propagation of certain ideologies that ultimately serve current political and social aims. Finally, I use the first two chapters to frame and assess the emergence of an ensemble called Tarab Yerushalayim, analyzing the ensemble’s performance practice, aims, and audience engagement in relation to the evolution of discussions regarding authenticity and the state of multiculturalism in Israel.
Table of Contents
Introduction ……………………………………………………………………………...……... 1
Chapter 1: Negotiating Identity ………………………………………………………………... 17
Chapter 2: Chasing the Andalusian Ideal ……………………………………………………… 32
Chapter 3: A New Frontier ……………………………………………………………..……… 45
Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………………………... 61
Bibliography………………………………………………………………..…………………... 64
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