Music in the Middle East is characterised by its emphasis on melody and rhythm rather than harmony. The modern music styles of the Middle East and North Africa have become increasingly influential worldwide through the work of such popular artists as Khaled, Clotaire K, and Natasha Atlas.

World renowned oud player and composer Ahmed Mukhtar performs beautiful music shaped by the traditions of Iraq and the Middle East. Enjoy his recent live performance at the British Museum in the attached links. Find out more about the oud and its poignant history in an exclusive interview with this virtuoso performer.

Although developed from ancient traditions, the music of the oud is intrinsically linked to the contemporary life and consciousness of people in the Middle East. Download a sample of Bedouin music for your own enjoyment.

The video of the performance is also available on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=comjDBjz564

Attachments

• Bedouin Dance (1118 Kb - Format mp3)
  Ahmed Mukhtar - Source: http://www.thebritishmuseum.ac.uk/middleeastnow/events/arabesque/music.html