Selective Hearing: Musicality for Interpretation
6-Week Series with Sal Elsayed
Join Sal Elsayed for a unique and immersive 6-week online series that explores the art of musicality in Middle Eastern dance. This course is designed to deepen your connection to classic Arabic music through mindful listening, movement experimentation, and personal expression.
Participants will learn to hear music with a more discerning, culturally aware ear—training themselves to hear selective details by identifying instrumental layers, transitions, and rhythms that often go unnoticed. Through a structured process of listening/hearing, watching/imitating, and dancing/performing, dancers will embody the music in new, imaginative ways and build choreography that is emotionally and musically rich.
Together, we will:
● Break down the structure and nuances of a classic Arabic song
● Explore multiple interpretations of the same musical phrase
● Create original choreography using guided listening and improvisation techniques
● Prepare a group piece for The Crimson Vagabond Roadshow September 19-20, 2025 at The DeLuxe Theater in Houston, TX
Refine & Rediscover
This series is ideal for dancers of any level who have some experience or exposure to Middle Eastern dance and music. Whether you’re looking to refine your choreographic process or rediscover your connection to the music, this class will offer tools, inspiration, and performance experience grounded in cultural appreciation and artistic growth.
Online classes are held weekly via Zoom and include recorded replays, optional video assignments, and a supportive learning environment.
*Online lessons begin Sunday August 17, 2025 @ 12pm via Zoom
*Includes TCVR Weekend Pass September 19-20, 2025 at The DeLuxe Theater