Neaema Fathy was captivated by a type of Islamic performing known as “Inshad” after first experiencing it at religious festivals in Egypt as a youngster with her family.
Her mother then urged her to start learning “Maqamat” – the skill of singing traditional Arabic tunes – at the age of 17, which would prepare her for Inshad chanting. She then sought assistance from Cairo Opera House singers, according to Zawya.
She is currently 27 years old and the founder of “Al Hoor,” Egypt’s all-female Islamic singing ensemble.
“I felt women were underrepresented in this field, and I wanted us to take part in developing the art form of chanting,” she explained. Songs that honor God or the Prophet and his family are known as inshad chants.
The company was first treated with mistrust since Egyptian culture was accustomed to male-led chanting, according to Fathy. “Some people were waiting to see if these girls deserved to be celebrated or if they would disappoint,” Fathy continued.
Another Egyptian female chanter, Shaimaa El Nouby, said she experienced similar difficulties. “I was told that using the female voice is forbidden, and that I’m only looking for attention.”
El Nouby, a professional chanter with over 12 years of experience, has broadened her career by establishing the Artistic Heritage Collection Association, which aims to protect Egypt’s artistic heritage.
