The repertoire of Iraqi maqam

The classical music of Iraq, known as Iraqi Maqam, features classical and vernacular poetry sung by a virtuoso soloist and accompanied by a small instrumental ensemble.

It is a remarkably cosmopolitan art, sharing many features with neighboring classical traditions, particularly Iranian.

Its repertoire consists of orally transmitted, multi-sectioned compositions, performed with some flexibility regarding ornamentation, arrangement and development.

Focusing on the period between 1930-1980, this reference offers the first comprehensive view of the musical contents of the repertoire - scalar structure, melodic materials and overall form - through various tables and musical transcriptions.