Typical Features of Arabic instruments

Today, there are various types of instruments among the Arab music instruments. In the Arab countries, many musical instruments are played, each with its characteristics and unique sound. Arabic instruments have existed since the beginning of history. There have been many mutual influences between the music of different cultures. 

Arabs have been interested in music since they were born. There have been dozens of Arabian instruments since the beginning of history. So, what are the typical features of Arabic instruments? In this article, we will share with you what is curious about the subject.

About Arabic instruments

It is known that Arab music in the pre-Islamic period between the 5th and 7th centuries was in the form of oral poetry accompanied by drums or ouds. Back then, songs had only one mode or melody. In the early Islamic period, Greek musical principles were translated by the Muslim scholar Ishak al-Kindi, who published 15 articles on music theory. The word "music" was used for the first time in Arabic as "mussiqa. In the 9th and 10th centuries, scholars produced the first comprehensive collections of poetry and music.

What are the main Arabic instruments?

Arabic oud

The oud is one of the best-known instruments in Arab Culture. It is a pear-shaped accordion instrument with strings. 

Bendir

Bendir is another historical Arabian instrument with deep roots. It is an exhaustive drum percussion instrument. Bendir has become one of the limitless musical instruments thanks to the magical music it has produced over the years. From North Africa to Southwest Asia, the Bendir has managed to at become a popular Arabic instrument in other parts of the world.

Daf

Daf, like many Arabian instruments in history, has influenced different cultures. It is an Arabic percussion instrument. Today, the worldwide popularity of the Daf is still high compared to other Arabic instruments. To come across different versions of Daf in neighboring cultures such as Turkey and Iran is possible.

Qanun

The qanun, one of the Arabic instruments, takes place in many cultures. It is a chordophone instrument with long strings on it. Like many other Arabic instruments, the qanun has achieved a regional reputation. It has become popular in Turkey, Greece, Iran, Armenia, and many other countries in the Middle East.

Common features of Arabic instruments

A wide variety of musical instruments are used in Arabic music. The traditional Arabic ensemble (Takht) includes five main instruments: oud, ney, qanun, violin, and a percussion instrument, most likely riq or masa or daf.

There are dozens of different Arab instruments throughout Arab history. Music history is divided into pre-Islamic and post-Islamic. Two significant features of contemporary Arabic music, the maqam, and the repetitive rhythm cycle have changed over the millennia. Classical Arabic music programs usually begin with instrumental music, called Taksim, which is included in a certain maqam. Maqam and iqaat in music are known as musical reflections of the Arab worldview.

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