Free-Form Recitative and Strophic Structure in the Hallel Psalms

The Hallel of the Hungarian Jews is divided into two parts: the first six sections are in recitative style, the next five sections are metrical, and the 12th section is again recitative. The recitatives are derived from the maqam principle, but the metrical tunes may be considered folk songs, and are influenced by other cultures. The recitative practice in contemporary Hungary shows a transitional position in the development of Hebrew monophony between free-form recitation and strophic construction.