Arab folk music is a rich, diverse genre deeply rooted in the centuries-old traditions of the Arabic-speaking world. It encompasses a variety of regional styles, each with unique instruments, rhythms, and scales that reflect the cultural tapestry of the Middle East and North Africa. Arab folk often features intricate stringed instruments like the oud (lute), qanun (zither), and rabab (fiddle), as well as flutes, percussion, and soulful vocals. The melodies are characterized by microtonal modes called maqamat, and rhythms, known as iqa'at, which offer complex, syncopated patterns. This genre tells stories of love, loss, and everyday life, maintaining oral histories and expressing the emotional depth and social contexts of the Arab people. Artists like Rahim AlHaj and Naseer Shamma capture this essence, bridging ancient sounds with contemporary resonance.
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