Is Music Haram? Jordanian Girls Educating Each Other about Nation, Faith, and Gender in School

Abstract

Purpose This research explores the importance of extracurricular activities, specifically music performances of a high school music group in Jordan, for the education of adolescent girls about patriotism, the proper way to live their faith, and their role as young women in contemporary Jordan. Setting Article is based on research in a high school for girls in a Jordanian city. Research Design The research presented in this article draws upon an ethnographic study, including interviews and observation, of a girls’ high school in Jordan, and event analysis of school-sponsored assemblies in and outside of school. Conclusions/Recommendations The participation of adolescent girls in music performances at patriotic events—the culmination of extracurricular activities at school—brought to the fore conflicts between patriotism and new forms of religiosity and gendered propriety, creating opportunities for young women to deliberate about these critical issues.