Aita (haita, rita or ghita) or vocal shikhat music is a traditional folk musical style that originates from the countryside of Morocco.[1][2] The term Aita عيطة in Moroccan Arabic means "call, cry or lament".
| Aita | |
|---|---|
| Stylistic origins | Chaabi |
| Cultural origins | Moroccan music |
| Typical instruments | frame drums |
| Regional scenes | |
| Jebala, Khouribga, Chaouia, Abda, Marrakesh | |
Origins
It is sung in Moroccan Arabic dialects]][3] by mixed groups composed of musicians and singers and singers and dancers, these women are called shikhats.[note 1] In Morocco, the Aita Festival is organized in Safi.