Arabic music has long revered masters of the oud, or lute. But Farah Kaddour, a Lebanese artist and music teacher, hopes she can revive interest in a lesser-known string instrument – the buzuq.
The long-necked lute is known for the crisp sound of its metal strings and the resonance from a deep soundbox. Originally played by nomadic communities of the Levant and popularised by urban music of the 20th century, it seldom appears in Arabic pop music today.
Kaddour, who comes from the marginalised north of Lebanon, is one of the few female buzuq players in the world. She has had a prolific year, releasing three albums with three ensembles of which she is part. She was also a winner at the triennial Aga Khan Music Awards in November.
Farah Kaddour is one of the few female buzuq players in the world. Photo: Lina Khalid
The difficulty is creating contemporary music for the instrument, while staying true to its origins, she says. “The challenge is not to lose the identity or the knowledge of [the buzuq],” she tells The National.
Farah Kaddour, left, performs with Senny Camara and Kamilya Jubran at the Aga Khan Music Awards in London.
Continue Reading on The National UAE
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.