The Twelve Muqam: A Cultural Treasure of the Uyghur People

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The Twelve Muqam: A Cultural Treasure of the Uyghur People
Uyghur Heritage



The Twelve Muqam is one of the most significant symbols of Uyghur culture. It embodies an expressive and narrative combination of traditional music, performance art, literature, drama, and dance. Due to its complexity and richness, this unique form of music holds a special place in the history of ethnic culture.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Muqam has a time-honoured history and a profound background, reflecting the depth of Uyghur culture. With many tribes comprising the Uyghur ethnic group, the music exhibits a multi-layered and multi-source nature, yet it remains distinct from the music of other ethnic groups.
Origins and Development
The Twelve Muqam has two primary sources, both temporally and geographically. The first source comprises songs developed from traditional music passed down from ancient times. The second source includes local music from regions such as Kuche, Kashgar, Turpan, Hami, Hotan, and Daolang. The unique melodies reflecting the Uyghur people's living methods, characteristics, morality, and psychological qualities influence this integration of temporal and geographical factors. These features are evident in the distinctive musical forms, playing methods, and instruments.
Structure and Composition
The term "Muqam" refers to a complete musical composition. The current scale and models of the Twelve Muqam took shape in the 16th century, guided by musicians like Dirham, Yaerkadi, and Amannishahan and through the contributions of many civilian musicians. The Twelve Muqam includes:
1. Rak
2. Čäbbiyat
3. Segah
4. Čahargah
5. Pänjigah
6. Özhal
7. Äjäm
8. Uššaq
9. Bayat
10. Nava
11. Mušavräk
12. Iraq
Each Muqam piece consists of distinct sections: naghma (melody), dastan (narrative), and mashrap (a form of Uyghur collective entertainment), and is performed using traditional Uyghur musical instruments such as the rawap, dutar, and satar.
Cultural Impact and Preservation
The Twelve Muqam is a repository of the Uyghur people's history, culture, and social values, reflecting their collective experiences and worldviews. Each piece combines instrumental music, poetry, dance, and storytelling, presenting narratives that can be symbolic, historical, or emotional. This intricate art form is preserved through oral tradition, with master musicians (Muqamchi) playing a crucial role in teaching and perpetuating it.
In 2005, the Twelve Muqam were inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing their cultural significance and the need for protection and promotion. This inclusion underscores the Muqam's importance to the Uyghur people and the world's cultural heritage, exemplifying the rich tapestry of human creativity and cultural expression.
Future of the Twelve Muqam
Preserving the Twelve Muqam is essential for maintaining the cultural identity of the Uyghur people amid globalization and cultural homogenization. Efforts to document and digitize performances, educate younger generations, and promote the Muqam on global platforms are ongoing to ensure this ancient tradition thrives in the modern era.

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