in its folk form, but there have been periods in the history of Egypt when the classical dance has been exalted and refined, particularly in the Islamic courts of the 10th and 11th centuries, and in the 18th century courts of the Ottoman rulers of Egypt. Egyptian dance and music have had a close link and a rich relationship throughout history. Much Egyptian music consists of aghani, or songs, which are constructed on strong rhythmic patterns, and lend themselves easily to dance.