Music of Oman

Dance#

All of Oman’s traditional music is sustained by oral transmission between generations, and each region has its own unique forms. Al-Razha is a traditional war dance characterized by its use of the sword and its exchange of poetry between men. Men leap into the air, carrying a heavy sword, and must not falter upon landing. The men also throw the sword into the air and catch it as it comes down-a show of strength and prowess. the Razha was used as a way to express the needs of the people in the tribe and also to announce war, victory, muster troops or mediate between warring factions. Al Razfa, also known as the Yowlah is performed by men of all ages and classes during social occasions, such as weddings and national festivals. Male performers form two facing lines with dancers filling the space between. Led by the main singer, the two rows create a dual chorus, singing chants in an anti-phonal manner to the accompaniment of drums and other instruments. Many chants are verses of traditional Nabati poetry, carefully selected to match the occasion. The dancers perform choreographed movements to the music while holding wooden replica of rifles in their hands. Sticks, also known as assa are more commonly used in place of the rifles. The music and poetry performed during the dance is referred to as Harbiya music, with Omani Harbiya groups like Abna Al Mazarie and others frequently performing at weddings, cultural festivals, national celebrations, and community gatherings.