Iraqi Maqam

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Region/Countries: Iraq

Iraqi Maqam 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

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