Interpretation of byzantine musical tradition in the Christian culture of Syria

Maksoud Marilyn

The article examines the manifestation and rooting of the Byzantine musical tradition in the Orthodox Christian culture of the Syrian people. The origin of the Syrian Orthodox church music culture can be traced back to the dawn of Christianity. The first religious Christian compositions were based on folklore tradition. And also their basis was the ritual pagan chants that preceded them, modified for the needs of the new doctrine. Music in the Byzantine Christian Church is primarily about prayer. Therefore, no musical instruments were used in it. The role of the patriarchs of the Syrian Orthodox Church and contemporary composers in strengthening and popularizing the Byzantine musical tradition is noted.

Keywords:Syrian Arab Republic, Syrian Orthodox tradition, Byzantine musical tradition, Christian culture of Syria, Byzantine Christian church, Syrian culture, traditions, psalms, Arab Caliphate, Ottoman Empire.