The Traditional Folklore in Morocco
Moroccan folklore is a national treasure, a kaleidoscope of sounds, colors, and movements that reflect the richness of its history and geography. It is not a monolithic entity, but rather a vibrant mosaic woven by centuries of interaction between Amazigh (Berber), Arab, Andalusian, and Sub-Saharan African cultures.
Moroccan Folklore is the purest expression of the celebrations, rituals, and identity of the Kingdom's diverse communities.
1. Origins and History: A Crossroads of Influences
The history of Moroccan folklore is intrinsically linked to the history of the country, a true cultural crossroads between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
The Amazigh Heritage
The Amazigh are the indigenous people of Morocco and constitute the oldest foundation of the folklore. Their musical and choreographic traditions are deeply rooted in community life, agricultural cycles, and social ceremonies (weddings, births). The music and dance are often collective, circular, or semi-circular, symbolizing unity. Key instruments include the Rebab (a type of fiddle), the Lotar (lute), and the Bendir (frame drum).
From this tradition stems the Ahidous, the typical collective dance of the Middle and High Atlas, where men and women form a circle to sing and dance in harmony. In the South, the Ahwach is a similar form, practiced in the evening around a fire.
Arab and Andalusian Contributions
With the arrival of Islam and, later, with the expulsion of the Moors and Jews from Al-Andalus, a refined influence took root, mainly in the northern cities (Fez, Tétouan). Arab-Andalusian music permeated the urban musical landscape and is the source of certain popular songs like the Malhoun.
In the plains of Chaouia and Abda, the Aïta is a rural song and a very expressive dance, often associated with festivals and markets. The Aïta is a "cry" or a "lament" with often coded or satirical lyrics, accompanied by the violin, the Bendir, and the Ghaïta (oboe).
Sub-Saharan Influence: The Gnawas
The arrival of caravans from West Africa introduced unique ritual and musical practices. Gnawa is a religious and cultural syncretism, a direct heritage of populations originating from Sub-Saharan Africa. It is famous for its trance rituals, healing songs, and emblematic instruments: the Guembri (three-stringed bass lute) and the Qraqeb (large metal castanets).
2. Major Expressions and Popular Troupes
The richness of the folklore is manifested in a diversity of regional dances and music, each with its own codes, costumes, and instruments.
The Dakka Marrakchia
Typical of Marrakech, the Dakka Marrakchia is a powerful performance of percussion and chants. These frantic rhythms are played with the Tbal (cylindrical drum) and the Taarija (small derbouka), and are ubiquitous during city celebrations such as weddings.
The Gnawas
Globally recognized thanks to the Gnaoua Festival in Essaouira, the Maâlems (Gnawa masters) and their troupes embody Moroccan trance and mysticism. Their music is a spiritual experience that fuses art and the sacred.
The Aïssawa
The Sufi brotherhood of the Aïssawa, originating from Fez, is famous for its spectacular trance rituals (called Hadra). Their performances include mystical chants and intense percussion, and are considered sacred and ritualistic folklore.
The Fantasia
The Fantasia (or Tbourida) is one of the most famous and visually spectacular folkloric expressions in Morocco. Although it is not a dance troupe, this traditional equestrian art features squadrons of horsemen in traditional costumes simulating a military charge that culminates in a coordinated firing of their powder muskets (the baroud). It is an ancient Amazigh tradition, a symbol of bravery and regional pride, celebrated in festivals and moussems throughout the country.
The Reggada of the Rif
In the Rif region, the Reggada is a vigorous and rhythmic warrior dance that mimics battle movements, characterized by jumps and foot stomping. It is often accompanied by the Zamar (a type of double flute) and the Bendir.
In conclusion, Moroccan folklore is a living heritage that continues to evolve, passed down from generation to generation. It is the mirror of the Moroccan soul: diverse, ancient, and full of vitality.
