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By HADIA
The chiftitelli is the slow, sensuous segment of the oriental dance, performed to the Turkish/Greek rhythm also called chiftitelli. It is the most readily recognizable rhythm for the beginning dancer.
The chiftitelli is predominant
in popular Greek dancing, Turkish bellydancing, American style bellydancing
and occasionally, in the Arabic raks sharqi. 
This rhythm offers both dancer and percussionist a wide range of rhythmical interpretations while respecting the essential 8-count framework. Thus, the possibilities of artistic expression of the chiftitelli are virtually limitless, dictated only by the dancer's individual creativity.
The intoxicating, hypnotic quality of the chiftitelli rhythm allows the dancer to turn her focus inward, in contrast to the typically extroverted character of the oriental dance. This inspires the serpentine movements of the dancer's body as expressed in the sinuous undulations of the arms and torso.
In contrast, when individual accents are portrayed with sharp, staccato movements, a dynamic tension is created which gives the dance its powerful impact on the audience. So, explore and enjoy the endless possibilities of the chiftitelli!
Hadia is an internationally acclaimed instructor and performer. In 2000 she won IAMED's award for best choreographer. See her website for information on workshops, tours, flamenco dance and massage therapy.