Question

As-Salaamu Alaikum.  At the each end each aayat in surah Al-Fatihah for an example: Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem, how long do u hold the heem (how many counts) at the end of the aayat?

And in the same surah where we say Walad Daaaa leen, how many counts do u hold the Daaaa?
Shukran.
As-Salaamu Alaikum

Answer

Wa alaikum assalaam wa rahmatu Allahi wa barakatuh.

You can hold the elongations 2, 4, or 6 vowel counts.  It is up to the reciter, but it should be consistent throughout the recitation. Generally, beginning students should practice the four counts, to make sure they get used to lengthening the words and not cut them short.  Later, after perfecting the four vowel counts, the student may practice the two vowel count or six. 

In the last word of surah Al-Faatihah, , the alif after the letter  is lengthened six vowel counts.

‘Afwan.

Wa alaikum assalaam wa rahmatu Allah.