Iraqi Maqam

The Iraqi Maqam is a maqam or system of melodic modes that is characteristic of Iraqi classical music, and it is the predominant element of Iraq’s music, as it includes a wide range of songs accompanied by traditional musical instruments. This popular genre also contains a wealth of information regarding the region's musical history and Arab influences over the centuries.
The Iraqi maqam, in terms of its composition and the instruments used in it, is closely related to the group of traditional musical forms known in Iran, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan. It embraces numerous genres and primary melodic modes.
It also features improvisational vocal segments that use metric accompaniment and often lead to a medley of strophic songs. The singer's skill of improvisation creates an interplay with the orchestra providing accompaniment throughout the performance.
The typical instruments include the dulcimer (santur), a four-string spike fiddle (jawzah), a dumbek drum and a small tambourine. Iraqi Maqam performances are usually held in private gatherings, cafes, and theatres, as they derive their roots from classical and colloquial Arabic poetry and highly revered by all Iraqis.

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Iraqi Maqam was inscribed in 2008 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in Iraq.