The system of musical modes known as maqam, which is used in some form by almost all peoples of the Near East, the Balkans, the Caucasus, North Africa, and Central Asia, presents an almost inexhaustible subject of study that often appears confusing and obscure.

However, in reality, all variations of the maqam system possess an extraordinary elegance and consistency, simply refusing to allow theoretical frameworks to overshadow and negate the idiomatic nature of the music that desires the equal coexistence of inspiration and structure.

I believe that Marios has understood this significant peculiarity of this musical system well, and thus has been able to see and convey to us many aspects of this tradition that will be enlightening even for those familiar with the genre.

[Excerpt from the text on the back cover of the edition]