The Effects of Maqām-Based Oud Therapy on Emotional and Physiological Responses: A Study in Malaysian Listeners
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37134/juraisembah.vol6.2.2.2025Keywords:
Maqam, Oud Music, Music Therapy, Emotional Response, Stress Reduction, Sound Healing, GambusAbstract
This study explores the therapeutic potential of maqām-based music listening within the framework of Receptive Music Therapy (RMT). While maqām has historically been associated with spiritual healing and emotional regulation, its scientific validation remains limited. Using pre-recorded oud improvisations (taqsim) by Munir Bashir, this study examines how different maqām evoke psychological and physiological responses amonglisteners. A total of 20 participants completed pre- and post-listening assessments, measuring mood, stress levels, and emotional effects of Maqām Nahawand, Maqām Rast, and Maqām Bayati. Findings indicate a statistically significant reduction in stress levels (p < 0.05) and an overall improvement in mood post-listening. Maqām Rast was most associated with stability and clarity, Nahawand evoked deep introspection and melancholy, while Bayati was linked to spiritual warmth, nostalgia, and relaxation. These results suggest that maqām-based music can serve as an effective tool for emotional regulation and stress reduction, particularly within non-Western music therapy models. By integrating ethnomusicological insights with empirical research, this study contributes to the global recognition of maqām-based music in therapeutic settings, offering new perspectives on culturally adaptive sound healing practices.
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