A Day in Sound

A musical journey through the Arab tradition: experience the key moments of a single day through the sounds of Maqam music, brought to life with imagery that illuminates each passing hour.

The Vlaams Radiokoor invited Iraqi qanun player and composer Osama Abdulrasol to create a new work: an enchanting journey shaped by the Arab musical tradition, following the rhythm of the day. Divided into nine parts, each moment bathes in its own atmosphere and energy—from the hush of dawn to the blaze of midday sun, from the warmth of twilight to the depths of night.

At the heart of every hour lies the rich world of Maqam: a melodic system rooted in Middle Eastern music, built on microtones and subtle ornamentation. Its unusual harmonies and timbres open a captivating sonic universe—for Maqam is more than music. Steeped in emotional nuance and cultural memory, each Maqam evokes a distinct mood, offering musicians a vibrant palette to shape a world of depth and intensity.

Filmmaker Bas Van Hoeck adds a visual layer to the story, creating an immersive experience where sound and image breathe as one.