Mukhammas

Mukhammas is a 16/4 rhythm and one of the long classical rhythms associated primarily with muwashshahat, while also appearing frequently in the Turkish-Ottoman peshrev tradition. Modern references note that the Arabic word mukhammas means built on five, but that meaning has no direct relation to its actual meter, which is 16/4. This is important because the name can mislead non-specialists. References also cite clear muwashshah examples such as Badri Adir Kas Al-Tila and Wajhuka Mushriq Bil-Anwar.

Mukhammas is used as a rhythmic template for feeling the 16/4 meter. Start from the first Dum, then connect the Taks and rests to the movement of the melody or song.

• Badri Adir Kas Al-Tila
• Wajhuka Mushriq Bil-Anwar