Chobi · شوبي
Region/Countries: Iraq
Chobi spans 1920s–present across Iraq. It foregrounds microtonal maqam, long-form suites, poetic recitation. Rhythms include jurjina, samai thaqil. Ensembles center on joza, oud, santur. Influences include Ottoman court, Persian classical. Lyrics are ≈90% Arabic.
Musical features
- microtonal maqam
- long-form suites
- poetic recitation
- measured improvisation
Rhythms & Forms
- jurjina
- samai thaqil
Core instruments
Influences
- Ottoman court
- Persian classical
Related genres
- Tarab
- Maqam-based Classical (Arab Classical)
- Classical Arabic Music
- Modern Arabic Classical / Symphonic Music
- Arabic Symphonic Pop
- Muwashshah
Sources
- Britannica — Arabic music (overview)
- Oxford Music Online — Arab music overview
- Smithsonian Folkways — regional notes