Different music genres, including Chaabi, Gnawa, Ma’luf, Hawzi, and more, trace their roots to the countries of Northern Africa. In this write-up, we'll delve into a music genre from the largest African country by landmass.

Also known as Andalusian classical music, Gharnati takes its name from the Arabic name for Granada, an autonomous community in Andalusia, Spain. This exquisite musical genre is a harmonious fusion of Arabic, European (Spanish and French), Persian, and Jewish liturgical music and poetry.

When we consider the multicultural essence of Gharnati music, its origins come into focus. Historians suggest that Gharnati music was reserved for the wealthy and noble, exclusively performed in the courts of Granada in Andalusia, Spain.

In 1492, during the Reconquista, the Catholic kings captured Granada.  Rather than converting to Catholicism, the Muslim residents fled to Maghreb i.e Northern Africa while taking along their culture and music. Over time, the Gharnati music genre took root in Algeria, passing down through generations through oral transmission, and eventually spreading to other cities within the country. In the 20th century, during the French occupation in Algeria, particularly in the port city of Oran, families migrated from Algiers and Tlemcen to Morocco in a bid to escape colonial rule. It was here in Morocco that a variant of Gharnati music was introduced.

Gharnati music is typically characterized by solo singing and a smaller musical ensemble.

It is primarily found in Algeria and also these two cities -Tlemcen and Oujda -  in Morocco. This style of music from both countries have a common foundation with variations in style and repertoire.

Apart from vocal renditions, the instruments used in performances include the Algerian oud ( a fretless 11-stringed instrument known as kwitra), kemandja, rehab, qanun ( a type of zither), mandoline, and a Persian flute called ney.

The complex structural intricacies and melodic finesse of Gharnati music exemplify the rich tapestry of Algeria's artistic heritage, while its scales and modes are of Andaluscian origin thus giving this music style its unique tone quality.

Despite its uniqueness, the Gharnati music is said to bear close resemblance to the Cante flamenco genre from Spain as its essence cuts across different themes.

Some noteworthy artists of this include Amina Alaoui, Larbi Bensari, Reinette L'Oranaise, El Hadj Mohamed El Ghaffour, and Fadhéla Dziria, to mention a few.

Gharnati music remains one of the few remaining relics from the Islamic Spain pre-Reconquista era, offering a poignant reminder of its enduring cultural legacy.

Image of Amina Alaoui, a Gharnati musician from Morocco performing on stage.

Gharnati Music: A Multicultural Tapestry of Algeria Artistic Heritage

Related Blogs