The Music and Musical Instruments of the Arab: With Introduction on How to Appreciate Arab Music (Classic Reprint)

Explore the rich world of Arab music through its instruments, rhythms, and scales.This book surveys the history and theory of Arab music, tracing how ancient instruments and later reforms shaped melody and harmony. It covers a range of traditional instruments (such as the Kanoun, Gosba, Taar, Djaouak, Bendair, and Atahal) and explains how tetrachords, hexachords, and mutations contributed to scale construction. The discussion extends from early theoretical developments to the idea of rhythm, percussion, and the concept of “rhythmic harmony.” It also looks at chromatic modes and how Arab music has interacted with European musical ideas over time.With clear explanations and period drawings, you’ll gain context for how Arab music was analyzed, taught, and performed in historical settings. The book situates musical craft within its cultural and historical moments, offering insights that are accessible to readers new to the topic as well as those seeking deeper background.Learn about traditional instruments: Kanoun, Gosba, Taar, Djaouak, Bendair, Atahal, and more.Understand how hexachords, tetrachords, and mutations formed the basis of Arab scales.Explore Arab rhythm and percussion, including ideas of rhythmic harmony and timing.See connections between Arab and European music, and how ideas traveled across cultures.Ideal for readers of music history, ethnomusicology, and fans of world music looking for a grounded, historical perspective on Arab musical practice. Read more