Imagine a classroom where children sing, clap, and play along to vibrant melodies rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East. This is the world envisioned by composer and educator Shireen Abu-Khader in her upcoming book,Yalla!.The word“Yalla”translates to “Let’s go” in Arabic, perfectly capturing the spirit of movement, excitement, and playfulness that the book embodies. Tailored specifically for elementary school students in grades 4-6, Yalla bridges cultural heritage with accessible music education, aligning seamlessly with North American educational standards.

“Music is a bridge, and I wantedYalla to be the bridge that connects young learners to the rhythms and melodies of the Middle East,” Shireen shares.“This book is about more than teaching music; it’s about creating moments of joy, curiosity, and understanding.”

A Resource Tailored for Educators
Designed in collaboration with esteemed educators Dr. Lori Anne Dolloff and Catherine Fox,Yalla ensures that every activity and song meets the needs of today’s classrooms. Shireen herself holds a PhD in Music Education from the University of Toronto, and her expertise shines through in every page.“It was important to me that this book feels relevant and practical for teachers in North America,” says Shireen.“Collaborating with Lori and Catherine helped ensure thatYalla aligns with educational standards while staying true to the essence of Middle Eastern music.”

The book features a vibrant collection of songs, games, and activities, from simple hello songs likeAhla u Sahla to rhythmic clapping games and more intricate pieces likeLamma Bada Yatathanna. Each activity is designed to teach foundational concepts like rhythm, melody, and movement while fostering cultural appreciation.

Rooted in Inclusivity and Diversity
The idea forYalla grew out of Shireen’s conversations with educators at the Ontario Music Educators’ Association (OMEA) conference. Teachers voiced a strong desire for resources that resonate with diverse classrooms, particularly those with Middle Eastern students. Inspired by these conversations, Shireen craftedYalla to align with ADEI (Accessibility, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) principles, ensuring it reflects the cultural richness of the music and the classrooms it serves.

“Music has the power to make every child feel seen and valued,” Shireen explains.“This book is my way of contributing to that inclusivity.”

A Journey Through Rhythm and Melody
One of the unique features ofYalla is its approach to introducing students to the distinctive sounds of Arabic music. From clapping along todʊm andtak—the building blocks of Arabic rhythms—to exploring melodies from the maqamat (Arabic scales), the book offers students an immersive musical journey.

“I wanted children to experience the joy and depth of Arabic music, even if they’re encountering it for the first time,” Shireen says.“The activities inYalla are playful and engaging, but they also introduce concepts that are deeply rooted in tradition.”

Why Yalla Matters
In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected,Yalla provides a meaningful way for students to explore the beauty of Middle Eastern music and culture. It’s more than a collection of songs, it’s a tool for fostering empathy, understanding, and creativity in the classroom.

Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or a music enthusiast,Yalla offers an exciting opportunity to bring a new perspective to music education. As Shireen puts it,“The magic of music is that it can transport us anywhere, no passport required.”

Stay tuned for the release of Yalla! Let’s Sing and Play, published by Dozan World, closer to Christmas 2024, a book that promises to inspire children and educators alike while celebrating the joy and diversity of music. Let’s sing, clap, and play together, Yalla!