Qanun

Definition

The qanun is a traditional Middle Eastern stringed musical instrument that resembles a large zither, featuring a flat, trapezoidal shape and played by plucking its strings with the fingers or using plectra. It plays a central role in the music of the Middle East and North Africa, often providing melodic support in both solo performances and ensembles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The qanun typically has 26 to 39 strings, which are arranged in courses and can be tuned to various scales, allowing for flexibility in musical expression.
2. It is often played in ensemble settings alongside other instruments like the oud and percussion, contributing to the rich texture of Middle Eastern music.
3. The qanun player uses a technique called 'pizzicato,' where strings are plucked with the fingers or plectra, creating a bright and resonant sound.
4. In modern times, the qanun has gained popularity beyond traditional contexts and is now incorporated into contemporary music genres around the world.
5. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Mesopotamia, and it has evolved over centuries, becoming a symbol of cultural identity in various Middle Eastern countries.

Review Questions

• How does the qanun contribute to the overall sound and texture of Middle Eastern music?
  • The qanun contributes significantly to Middle Eastern music by providing melodic lines and harmonic support within ensembles. Its bright, resonant sound enhances the musical landscape, complementing other instruments such as the oud and percussion. This interplay creates a rich tapestry of sounds that is characteristic of Middle Eastern musical traditions.
• Compare and contrast the qanun with the oud in terms of their roles within traditional Middle Eastern music.
  • The qanun and oud serve distinct but complementary roles in traditional Middle Eastern music. While the qanun functions primarily as a melodic instrument, producing intricate melodies and harmonies through its plucked strings, the oud serves as both a melody and rhythm provider due to its fretted neck and robust sound. Together, they create a balanced musical dialogue, with the qanun offering detailed melodic lines while the oud provides rhythmic depth and accompaniment.
• Evaluate the impact of globalization on the qanun's role in contemporary music across cultures.
  • Globalization has significantly influenced the qanun's role in contemporary music by introducing it to diverse musical styles and genres outside its traditional context. As musicians from different backgrounds incorporate the qanun into their works, it blends with various cultural elements, leading to innovative fusions that broaden its appeal. This cross-cultural exchange enhances the qanun's versatility as an instrument, showcasing its adaptability while preserving its rich heritage within Middle Eastern music.

Related terms

Oud: A pear-shaped stringed instrument that is considered the ancestor of the lute, commonly used in Middle Eastern music.

Maqam: A system of melodic modes used in traditional Arabic music, which defines the pitch and structure of melodies.

Taqsim: An improvisational solo instrumental performance that showcases a musician's skill within a specific maqam.