Qanun Mastery Academy

With The World Leading Qanun Maqam & Taqsim Mentor Maya Youssef

A comprehensive 6-month program for new to advanced players who are ready to confidently play their favorite tunes and perform an authentic taqsim—with just 10 minutes of focused daily practice.

Enrollment is limited to just 20 committed qanun enthusiasts so I can give each student personalized support and guidance.

No theory, no prior music knowledge,or boring scales... just 10 minutes a day.
What Happens Next
To keep the program aligned and high-impact, I ask each student to complete a short application. This has nothing to do with your level of musicality. You don’t need to “qualify” musically, and there’s no assessment of your skill.

The application simply helps me ensure that I’m the right person to guide you—and that this experience truly supports your goals. I’ll ask a few questions about what you’re looking for so we can both feel confident this is the right fit.
How to Apply & What to Expect

Step. 1

Submit Your Application

Click the link below to fill out the application form. Whether you're a complete newbie with no prior training or someone with experience, this program is for you. You don’t need to be a professional musician or have any prior training—just have a passion for the qanun. Share your goals, challenges, and why you're excited to take this next step in your qanun journey.

Step. 2

I’ll Reach Out Personally

Once your application is reviewed, I will reach out to you personally to answer any questions you might have and ensure we’re the right fit for each other.

Step. 3

Join the Community

Once accepted, you’ll secure your spot in the program and gain immediate access to the Qanun Mastery Academy resources, along with my personalized support throughout your journey.

This is your chance to join a small, supportive group of qanunists, all working toward the same goal—progressing quickly and enjoying the journey. With only 20 spots available, I’m looking for students who are truly passionate and ready to commit to learning and growing together.
"Maya is one of a Kind! A true virtuoso musician"

Salim Sarwe

Umm Kulthum’s Wanted Qanun Player
Even Without an Arab or Musical Background, I Can Confidently Play a Taqsim! 
"I fell in love with the qanun but had many doubts holding me back.

I thought I was too old, and as a non-Arab, I wasn’t sure I could grasp the music.

However, with Maya’s teaching, I now understand maqamat and can play taqasim, even without growing up with this music.

I had no music background and couldn’t read music, but Maya didn’t push me to learn sheet music. Instead, she helped me learn in a way that worked for me—by ear.

I also assumed it would take months of scales before I could play a tune, but I played my first one in the very first class.

Learning online seemed daunting, but Maya’s Zoom classes are just as effective as in-person, and she catches every important detail.

I worried about being judged as a beginner in a mixed-level class, but the group is so supportive—it’s a safe space where everyone cheers you on.

After watching Maya’s videos, I knew I had to join Qanun Mastery academy, and it exceeded all my expectations.
 
Though I was nervous at first, I instantly felt I found my musical home. If I, a nervous, non-Arab, non-musician, could do it—so can you!"

Lene Dalen

Oslo, Norway
Working with Maya was a life-changer!
"Since I played other instruments, I decided to teach myself to play the Qanun - but my technique was all wrong and I needed help. Then I found the Qanun Mastery Academy and everything changed! 

Maya has been supportive, inspirational and brilliant in her approach - both in Maqam and in Qanun instruction. She always seems to know what I need, is extremely encouraging, and I'm making constant progress every week. It has been a life-changer for me!"

Ken Genetti

Multi-instrumentalist
California USA
How to Apply & What to Expect

Step. 1

Submit Your Application

Click the link below to fill out the application form. Whether you're a complete newbie with no prior training or someone with experience, this program is for you. You don’t need to be a professional musician or have any prior training—just have a passion for the qanun. Share your goals, challenges, and why you're excited to take this next step in your qanun journey.

Step. 2

I’ll Reach Out Personally

Once your application is reviewed, I will reach out to you personally to answer any questions you might have and ensure we’re the right fit for each other.

Step. 3

Join the Community

Once accepted, you’ll secure your spot in the program and gain immediate access to the Qanun Mastery Academy resources, along with my personalized support throughout your journey.

This is your chance to join a small, supportive group of qanunists, all working toward the same goal—progressing quickly and enjoying the journey. With only 20 spots available, I’m looking for students who are truly passionate and ready to commit to learning and growing together.
You Won't Find What is Inside Anywhere Else
 "Beyond my Western music studies, I've studied Turkish qanun and Turkish makam theory. I've always wanted to learn about Arabic music and expand my qanun techniques.

When I joined Academy I was wondering if the on-line courses could really help me.  However, the program  exceed my expectations! Maya's pedagogical approach is unique and effective. I took many courses but I didn't find anything close to this program. 

In addition, the environment of the community is entirely safe and supportive! If you love qanun, join Qanun Mastery. Maya is not just a charismatic composer, performer and instructor, but also a true mentor! Thank you Maya!"

Despina Afthentopoulou 

Music Lecturer at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Greece
I’m Blown Away By The Progress I Made
"I was initially skeptical about joining, but I was quickly impressed by the wealth of knowledge and the detailed, well-structured tutorials provided by Maya.

The Q&A recordings contain Maya's meticulous feedback on students' playing, and reflect her dedication to helping her students perform to the best of their abilities through continuous encouragement.

Her innovative teaching method helped me overcome the overwhelming idea that 'maqamat are an ocean' and gave me new ways to understand and practice maqam.

I was finally able to play longer, more complex pieces and, to my complete amazement, I was able to play a taqsim! 

The detailed feedback and continuous encouragement from Maya were invaluable, and I learned so much from both her and my peers. I highly recommend Qanun Mastery !"

Dr. Samia Touati

Raleigh, North Carolina
I Can't Emphasize Enough Just How Valuable The Maqam Resources Are.
"While more excited than skeptical, I did wonder about the effectiveness of online sessions.
Before I started working with Maya, I felt my qanun skills had reached a plateau. I also noticed I was memorizing maqams without fully understanding their complexities.

Within just a few months of working with Maya, I’ve significantly improved my technical skills, including dynamics and ornamentation, and expanded my understanding of Maqam. I can now even play a taqsim! 

I now approach playing the qanun with so much more confidence and joy.I also cannot stress enough the immense value I find in the maqam resources available.

Working with Maya has been invaluable. Her engaging and insightful approach goes beyond simply learning Arabic music and Maqam; it reaches the essence of becoming a more confident and skilled qanun player.

Maya's guidance is not just informative; it's sincere and transformative."

Haneen M.

Lawyer and Qanunist
Qanun Mastery Completely Eclipsed My Expectations!
I had never played an instrument before and had zero musical experience. I was skeptical at first about the price of the academy because I’d taken other courses before and didn’t feel they delivered

But from the moment I logged in, I was blown away. The program completely eclipsed my expectations. Everything I needed to progress was there, broken down into manageable bite-sized portions.

Maya is an incredible teacher who explains things so clearly that even a complete beginner like me can understand. I was able to play my favorite songs from the start, and now I’m playing more complex pieces.

Maya is incredibly generous with her time and truly wants you to improve. One of my favorite aspects of the academy is seeing the other students, at all levels, get feedback from Maya. 

It’s amazing to watch her bring out that extra bit of magic in everyone’s playstyle. I’m so happy to be part of this qanun community and can’t recommend it enough."

Nicholas Baalbaki

Farm Owner
San Francisco USA
How to Apply & What to Expect

Step. 1

Submit Your Application

Click the link below to fill out the application form. Whether you're a complete newbie with no prior training or someone with experience, this program is for you. You don’t need to be a professional musician or have any prior training—just have a passion for the qanun. Share your goals, challenges, and why you're excited to take this next step in your qanun journey.

Step. 2

I’ll Reach Out Personally

Once your application is reviewed, I will reach out to you personally to answer any questions you might have and ensure we’re the right fit for each other.

Step. 3

Join the Community

Once accepted, you’ll secure your spot in the program and gain immediate access to the Qanun Mastery Academy resources, along with my personalized support throughout your journey.

This is your chance to join a small, supportive group of qanunists, all working toward the same goal—progressing quickly and enjoying the journey. With only 20 spots available, I’m looking for students who are truly passionate and ready to commit to learning and growing together.
This is Not Just a Course, it’s a Complete System!
 "I tried to improve by taking classes here and there, but nothing worked—I felt lost and frustrated.

When I first considered working with Maya, I had three concerns: I was skeptical about learning online, I play a Turkish qanun while Maya uses an Arabic one, and I wasn’t sure how it would work with students at different levels.

After joining, I quickly realized learning online with Maya is just as effective as being in the same room. Everything is explained clearly and is easy to follow. From day one, Maya showed me exactly how to navigate my Turkish qanun.

I was also amazed by how Maya tailored her teaching to each student, giving me personalized steps to improve while supporting other qanun players at different levels. The understanding of maqams was crucial for me, and Qanun Mastery offers a complete system—from ornamentation to maqam and all the way to taqsim.

If you're serious about learning qanun, I highly recommend joining Maya's program."

Robert Santa Maria

Musician
Spain
Sara went from a complete beginner to playing a taqsim like a pro.
When I started with Maya, I knew nothing about music theory and never played an instrument.
At the time, coming across Maya’s program was the best thing that could have happened to me as a complete beginner. I had tried websites and lessons with musicians, but I never found a comprehensive, simple, and fun method that worked like Maya’s.

If you are looking for a great opportunity to learn Arabic music, to play Qanûn while working full time this is the perfect one.

You don’t need any prior knowledge, not even how to read music sheets—just like me when I started. The only thing you need is a love for the Qanûn and your ears.

I can now confidently play a taqsim, and my technique has improved beyond recognition—something I never thought possible without decades of intensive learning.

Now, I can’t imagine my life without Maya and the Qanun. The qanun has become a haven of peace for me and I am forever grateful to Maya for this precious gift.

Sara Abanamy 

France 
Save Time, Money, and Achieve Your Qanun Goals with Maya’s Complete System
"I would highly recommend Qanun Mastery Academy because I’ve gained so much from it. As a beginner with no prior music training, I never felt embarrassed asking basic questions. Every question was answered by Maya warmly and in terms I could easily understand.

With other teachers, I often felt lost and awkward asking for help.

What’s amazing is that I started learning qanun with two other students, one of whom majored in music, yet after a few months, I became the best in the class and started to get performance opportunities.

Maya’s support makes achieving your goals straightforward, saving you a huge amount of time, money, and frustration. Instead of piecing everything together on your own, you get everything you need in one place, helping you progress faster and with greater confidence."

Dr. Noha Xu 

Vice dean of Arabic Language department at Zhejiang University
China 
From Beginner to a Sought-After, Confident Performer
"For over a decade, I dreamed of learning the qanun, but struggled with finding a teacher and accessible resources. After years of self-teaching, I started working with Maya, and it changed everything.

Maya’s systematic, step-by-step approach helped me go from playing short tunes to confidently performing complex long pieces on stage . Her personal feedback and supportive community gave me the confidence to finally share my culture through qanun.

Today, I perform on stage, and was even recruited to play in a new ensemble after my performances! Huge thank you, Maya!"

Lama Kabir

Michigan, USA
How to Apply & What to Expect

Step. 1

Submit Your Application

Click the link below to fill out the application form. Whether you're a complete newbie with no prior training or someone with experience, this program is for you. You don’t need to be a professional musician or have any prior training—just have a passion for the qanun. Share your goals, challenges, and why you're excited to take this next step in your qanun journey.

Step. 2

I’ll Reach Out Personally

Once your application is reviewed, I will reach out to you personally to answer any questions you might have and ensure we’re the right fit for each other.

Step. 3

Join the Community

Once accepted, you’ll secure your spot in the program and gain immediate access to the Qanun Mastery Academy resources, along with my personalized support throughout your journey.

This is your chance to join a small, supportive group of qanunists, all working toward the same goal—progressing quickly and enjoying the journey. With only 20 spots available, I’m looking for students who are truly passionate and ready to commit to learning and growing together.
The Maqam Shortcuts Maya Invented Alone Are Worth The Entire Investment
"Before joining Qanun Mastery Academy, I had zero experience with the qanun. While I have some musical background in vibraphone and Western jazz, Arabic music is a completely different world.

I was initially concerned about taking online lessons, as my past experiences often felt “canned” with little room for feedback. But Qanun Mastery Academy is completely different.

Maya provides a comprehensive library of videos, covering everything from how to tune the instrument to playing taqasim, along with prompt, detailed feedback that guides us through our progress.

For absolute beginners, this is the best possible start. And for more advanced players, Maya has a unique ability to break down and demystify Arabic music.

If you’re on the fence, my advice is simple: don’t wait. You won’t find a better instructor, and trying to figure it out on your own is much harder.

 One key thing I want to emphasize is how Maya simplifies Arabic music, maqam, and theory—those alone are worth the price of the entire program. 

Ron Snedon 

San Francisco, USA
The Ultimate Program To Learn Qanun At Any Level
"I've been singing in Middle Eastern traditions for 30 years. For so long, I’d watch the qanun player in my ensemble and think, 'I want to do that, but it looks so hard.'

Then, on my 60th birthday, I finally got a qanun. I tried lessons, but I wasn’t improving.

Before joining Qanun Mastery Academy, I lacked an organized method. This program, worth its weight in rubies and gold, has given me exactly that – a structured, systematic way to learn and play.

Maya’s incredible support, generosity, and genuine love as a teacher shine through in every session. Each week, we come together as a community of qanunists at various stages. This is the most supportive, welcoming musical community on the planet!

Maya’s presence is so real that it feels as if she’s right there in your living room. Her feedback is always attentive, encouraging, and with no judgment; mistakes are welcomed as an essential part of learning.

This program is the ultimate way to learn qanun at any level, with materials covering everything from plucking basics to maqam and a song vault—all accessible anytime. Maya’s invaluable resources go beyond Q&As, always at your fingertips.

Joining Qanun Mastery Academy has been a truly positive, amazing experience. I started 5 years ago thinking I'd do it for six months, and now, I can’t imagine life without Maya and our weekly sessions."

Andrea Fishman 

Classics Lecturer at Santa Barbara University
USA
I Once Thought It Was Impossible, but Now I Confidently Play Taqasim
"I have a background in classical music (piano and clarinet), but I always dreamed of playing Arabic music. Growing up with Arabic songs from my Lebanese parents, I tried to teach myself, I lacked the knowledge of Arabic music theory and couldn’t grasp maqam.
 
I knew I needed a teacher to build a solid foundation in both technique and theory. That’s when I found Maya and joined Qanun Mastery—and I found exactly what I was looking for and more.

Since joining, I’ve made tremendous progress. My technique has improved drastically, I now understand maqam, can recognise it by ear and I can even play taqasim—something that felt impossible before.

Maya is an incredible teacher, full of generosity and sensitivity. She has a unique ability to break down complex concepts, making them accessible to students of all levels.

With access to weekly Q&As where we receive direct feedback from Maya, detailed bite-sized videos on qanun techniques maqam and qanun techniques, and a supportive community, you truly feel like part of a second family."

Ibada


It Feels Like Magic, But the Method Is So Easy and Understandable!
Maya's teachings and methods are true game changers in learning and understanding Arabic music.

I was told by others not to bother with maqam and taqasim.

That I would hopefully just magically «get it» when I had copied other people for a decade or three.

Not with Maya. Her teachings make you really understand even the most complex maqamat, without being simplistic. Maya has given me all the tools, understanding and support I need to master taqsim from the beginning.

And – she has empowered me to play like myself from Day 1, instead of being a copy of someone else. I am forever grateful to her for this gift of music.

Lene Dalen

Qanun Player
Norway
How to Apply & What to Expect

Step. 1

Submit Your Application

Click the link below to fill out the application form. Whether you're a complete newbie with no prior training or someone with experience, this program is for you. You don’t need to be a professional musician or have any prior training—just have a passion for the qanun. Share your goals, challenges, and why you're excited to take this next step in your qanun journey.

Step. 2

I’ll Reach Out Personally

Once your application is reviewed, I will reach out to you personally to answer any questions you might have and ensure we’re the right fit for each other.

Step. 3

Join the Community

Once accepted, you’ll secure your spot in the program and gain immediate access to the Qanun Mastery Academy resources, along with my personalized support throughout your journey.

This is your chance to join a small, supportive group of qanunists, all working toward the same goal—progressing quickly and enjoying the journey. With only 20 spots available, I’m looking for students who are truly passionate and ready to commit to learning and growing together.
I Can Now Play Taqsim in Any Maqam! 
" I tried learning with different teachers, but I didn’t make any real progress and struggled to find someone who understood what I needed.

When I saw Maya open Qanun Mastery, I was hesitant about learning online. My English wasn’t great, and I worried about understanding or communicating. But I wanted to improve, so I decided to give it a try—and I’m so glad I did.

Learning online with Maya is completely seamless.She shows every detail clearly, and even though I wasn’t a beginner, I learned so much about maqam and taqsim that I hadn’t found anywhere else.

The course portal is well-structured and covers everything from maqam to ornamentation and taqsim.

My biggest achievement has been learning how to confidently structure and play a taqsim in any maqam—something I never thought I could do.

If you’re on the fence, don’t hesitate. In a short time, you’ll learn so much about technique and expression. Maya is an excellent teacher who truly understands what you need. Her courses are clear and organized, and she’s a wonderful, joyful person to learn from. It’s been a joy learning with her."

Virgine M. 

French Teacher
France
The most effective music learning experience I’ve ever had
"In the beginning, the idea of starting qanun from scratch felt intimidating because I knew I wouldn't find a teacher in the Bay Area. After searching online, I found Maya's website, bought her courses, and was immediately blown away by the level of detail. I quickly joined Qanun Mastery.

 
The video library is structured in digestible, practical nuggets, allowing you to learn at your own pace, on your own schedule.

What sets Maya apart is her thoughtful teaching approach. Unlike other intimidating methods, she breaks things down in a way that's easy to understand, meeting you where you are and guiding you step by step.

I was initially skeptical about online lessons, but Qanun Mastery has been the most effective music learning experience I’ve ever had.

As an amateur and music enthusiast, I’ve gained more confidence and understanding through Maya’s teaching than I ever thought possible."

Yaman S.

Attorney
San Francisco, USA
From believing she'd never grasp maqam to recognizing it by ear within seconds!
I wanted to learn the qanun not just for the music, but to help me relax and enhance my overall well-being. However, I was intimidated by the complexity—tuning all the strings and understanding maqam seemed overwhelming.

When I found Maya on Facebook, her fun and approachable style convinced me she was the right teacher for me. I signed up for Qanun Mastery and later joined the VIP program, and my playing transformed beyond my expectations.

In just a few months, I improved my technique and  played my first taqsim. Maya’s unique way of teaching maqam, especially using her ‘Lego’ method, made everything click and kept me eager to learn more.

I never thought I could learn the qanun online, but Maya was able to guide me just as effectively as in-person lessons—helping me with posture, technique, and progress.

If you’re intimidated by the qanun or maqam, don’t hesitate—sign up.

Maya’s passion, generosity, and personalized guidance will help you get where you want to go."

Roxy Stimpson

Cyber Security Manager
USA
Qanun Mastery Gave Me the Structure and Support I Couldn't Find in the Conservatory
"After studying qanun at a conservatory in Morocco for 3 years, I was left frustrated. I wasn’t given the tools I needed—just told to practice scales. When I looked to professional musicians for guidance, they would say the same thing, which left me searching for answers.

That’s when I found Maya’s Qanun Mastery Academy, and it was exactly the missing link I had been looking for. With Maya’s guidance, I’ve improved my technique and reached the playing level I always wanted. 

The program is well-organized and works for all levels, offering the structure and support that I never found in the conservatory.

If you're looking for real progress in your qanun journey, don’t hesitate to join. Maya provides personalized advice and all the tools you need to truly succeed. "

Hasnaa Rouane

Engineer
Morocco
Ready to finally fulfill your qanun dream like my students? No prior music experience needed—even if you've never touched an instrument. This is your chance!"
In a Few Months Lucie was Able To Jam With Other Musicians
Ibada Performed This Killer Rendition of Lamma Bada 
Sara Performed This Iconic Samai With Confidence 
Nick Nailed This Famous
Umm Kulthum Song

Have any questions? e-mail me directly at info@mayayoussef.com

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@Copyright 2023 Qanun Secrets, All rights reserved. Maya Youssef