Syrian Vocal Mastery

An Immersive Guide to Syrian Vocal Heritage and Expression

Syrian Vocal Mastery is a unique opportunity to explore the rich traditions of Arabic singing while developing your voice with structured, professional training. Designed for singers of all levels who wish to deepen their understanding of Middle Eastern vocal music, this course combines technical development with cultural context, ensuring you not only sing the notes, but embody their meaning.

Through step-by-step lessons, you will learn essential warm-ups, discover the depth of Arabic scales and maqams, and develop expressive techniques that bring emotion and authenticity to your performance. Along the way, you will explore the rhythmic foundations of Arabic music, study traditional songs, and learn how to improvise within the maqam system.

This course is both practical and immersive. Each module is designed to strengthen your technique, broaden your musical awareness, and give you the tools to perform confidently. By the end, you will have the technical control, cultural insight, and artistic expression needed to sing with both precision and soul.

Key Learning Outcomes

Upon Successful Completion of this course, participants will be able to:

Vocal Technique & Warm-ups

Apply effective warm-up routines to prepare your voice safely and effectively.
Strengthen breath control, tone, and clarity through structured exercises.

Arabic Scales & Maqams

Recognize and sing core Arabic scales.
Navigate the maqam system with confidence and accuracy.
Understand the cultural significance of maqams in Arabic music.

Expression & Rhythm

Capture the unique expressive qualities of Arabic vocal performance.
Integrate essential Arabic rhythmic cycles into your singing.

Repertoire & Improvisation

Perform traditional Arabic songs with authenticity and nuance.
Develop improvisational skills within the maqam framework.
Combine technique, rhythm, and expression into original interpretations.

Meet Your Tutor

Hamsa Mounif is a professional Oriental singer whose voice has captivated audiences across the Middle East and Europe. A graduate of the Higher Institute of Music in Damascus, Syria, and holder of a Master’s degree in Music Performance from the University of East London, Hamsa brings both academic depth and lived experience to her teaching.

Her career spans major stages and collaborations: from The Voice Arabia to the National Orchestra of Syria, from Glastonbury and WOMAD to the Royal Festival Hall. She has performed alongside artists such as Damon Albarn, Paul Weller, Faia Younan, Seckou Keita, and Bassekou Kouyaté, while continuing to share Syrian musical heritage with new audiences.

Now based in the UK, Hamsa continues to perform internationally and develop her solo projects, while also dedicating her energy to teaching. Her approach combines technical training with cultural storytelling, helping students unlock not only their voices but also the emotional power behind the music.